By Elizabeth Osayande

Vice Chancellor of Crawford University, Professor Solomon Olanrewaju Makinde, has formally inducted 917 students into the institution for the 2025/2026 academic session with a charge to uphold the covenant of discipline and integrity. The ceremony, held on Wednesday at the university’s main campus, saw the matriculation of 832 undergraduate and 85 postgraduate students into various accredited programmes of the faith-based institution.

Speaking during the event, Professor Makinde stated that the students’ choice to study at the university was a testament to their conviction in the quality of teaching and learning offered by the citadel of learning. According to the Vice Chancellor, the ceremony was not merely a formality but a transformational moment that marked the formal induction of the students into a community of scholars committed to a life of excellence and purpose.

Professor Makinde said. “Today is not merely ceremonial, it is transformational. It marks your formal induction into a community of scholars and your commitment to a life of discipline, excellence, and purpose.”

The Vice Chancellor explained that the university, which was established in 2005 by the Apostolic Faith Mission, has grown steadily from a modest beginning into a respected institution that combines academic excellence with godliness. He noted that the current administration, which came on board in October 2025, has made measurable progress in academic delivery and infrastructural development within six months to ensure a functional and transformative learning environment.

Professor Makinde said. “Matriculation is not a mere formality, it is a covenant. A covenant between you and this university that you pledge to uphold discipline, integrity, and excellence.”

Makinde further stressed the importance of education as a tool for societal change, referencing the words of Julius Nyerere that education is a way of fighting poverty rather than escaping it. He urged the new students to adhere to the dress codes of the institution and eschew social vices such as violence and examination misconduct.

He emphasised that the university provides students with 21st-century skills to boost their relevance in the contemporary world of work, adding that the fear of God remains the foundation of true wisdom. While thanking parents and guardians for entrusting their children to the institution, the Vice Chancellor prayed that the students would complete their various programmes in record time to celebrate their graduation.

Professor Makinde said. “Our graduates are endowed with 21st century skills to boost their relevance and employability in the contemporary world of work after graduation. I therefore encourage you all to avail yourselves of the opportunity to acquire the requisite skills needed for self-actualisation.”