By Emmanuel Edukugho

THE 10th Matriculation Ceremony of Covenant University, Canaan Land, Ota, for 2011/2012 Academic Session Undergraduate/Postgraduate Degree Programmes was held last Friday (25th of November, 2011) inside the exquisite University Chapel, in a thrilling and inspirational atmosphere watched by special guests, parents, guardians, well-wishers, friends and relations of all matriculating students.

About 1,807 students were admitted into the University for First Degree Programmes, 53 for Masters and 16 for Ph.D, having fulfilled and satisfied entry requirements for the accredited courses.

Vice-Chancellor of Covenant University, Professor Aize Obayan said the number ten (10) in scriptural parlance represents perfection of divine order and “we therefore see the students matriculating today as being formally received into the Covenant University context, set to engage with a future that holds great promise, defined by the visionary foundations of the University… as they are raised as New Generation Leaders”.

She explained that the institution is a Christian Mission University with a clear mandate of pioneering excellence at the cutting-edge of learning.

“The integration of the fundamental requirements stipulated by academic and professional quality assurance bodies, a global outlook, and high-impact driven learning emphasis, provide a powerful synergy for empowerment in enabling the inculcation of intellectual and creative abilities via a platform of a solid commitment to self-discovery and in-depth inquiry”.

Obayan recalled that the University opened its doors to the first set of students on the 21st of October, 2002, and ever since then, they are humbled by the rapidity with which things are happening, not just in physical infrastructural developments, but the way in which academic and intellectual world have not only accepted our drive for world class contributions, but have actively validated our quest to become a citadel of excellence, and an oasis of Knowledge/Learning, via numerous awards and celebrated accomplishments since inception.

The Chancellor, Dr. David Oyedepo, in his speech read by the Executive Secretary (Education) Yemi Nathaniel, said, “Our mission at Covenant University is to develop the Man, who will in turn develop his World”, adding, “We see character as anchor of leadership, ability makes a manager, but integrity makes a leader”.

Earlier, the matriculating students read in unison after the Registrar, the Matriculation Covenant while standing at the end of the Declaration resumed their seats.

Some students were called representing each of the colleges and the School of Postgraduate Studies to come forward and perform the ceremonial signing of the Matriculation Register, on behalf of the other students.

There were poem recitations by a group of the fresh students and presentation by the University Choir.

A representative of the School of Postgraduate Studies on behalf of the entire matriculating students, addressed the audience, saying that Covenant University is a home, students are disciplined, with conducive learning environment, good infrastructure, constant electricity, water, open policy of management.