ILISHAN-REMO, NIGERIA — The Vice-Chancellor of Babcock University, Professor Afolarin Ojewole, has pledged to reposition the institution for global relevance through increased investment in research, innovation, and academic excellence.
Ojewole made the pledge on Thursday during a media briefing at the university campus in Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State, where he outlined his vision for the institution. He said his administration would focus on strengthening the university’s research capacity, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship among students, and enhancing the quality of teaching and learning.
“Research and innovation are the engines of development in the 21st century. We are committed to creating an environment where our faculty and students can engage in cutting-edge research that addresses real-world problems and contributes to national development,” Ojewole stated.
The Vice-Chancellor announced the establishment of a Research and Innovation Fund to support faculty and student research projects, particularly in areas such as health sciences, agriculture, technology, and environmental sustainability. He said the university would also strengthen its collaboration with industry and international research institutions to enhance the impact of its research output.
“We want our research to solve problems, not just sit on shelves. We will build partnerships that will enable our researchers to translate their findings into products and services that benefit society,” he said.
Ojewole also emphasised the importance of entrepreneurship education, noting that the university would expand its entrepreneurship programme to equip students with the skills needed to create jobs rather than seek them. He said the university would establish a business incubation centre to support student startups and provide mentorship and access to funding.
“We are not just training students to be job seekers; we are training them to be job creators. Our goal is to produce graduates who can think critically, innovate, and contribute meaningfully to the economy,” he stated.
The Vice-Chancellor also disclosed plans to improve infrastructure and facilities at the university, including the construction of new lecture halls, laboratories, and student hostels. He said the university would also invest in digital infrastructure to support online learning and research.
“We are committed to providing our students with the best possible learning environment. We will continue to invest in our facilities and in the professional development of our staff,” he said.
Ojewole also reaffirmed the university’s commitment to its Christian values, noting that Babcock was founded on the principles of excellence, integrity, and service. He said the university would continue to nurture students in an environment that promotes moral and spiritual development.
“Education is not just about acquiring knowledge; it is about building character. Our mission is to develop men and women who are not only intellectually competent but also morally upright and socially responsible,” he said.
The Vice-Chancellor’s vision has been welcomed by faculty, students, and alumni of the university, who expressed confidence in his leadership. The President of the Babcock University Alumni Association said the university had made significant progress in recent years and that Ojewole’s focus on research and innovation would take it to greater heights.
“The world is changing rapidly, and universities must adapt to remain relevant. Professor Ojewole’s vision is exactly what Babcock needs at this time. We are confident that he will lead the university to new heights,” the alumni president said.
As Babcock University embarks on this new phase, the focus will be on translating the Vice-Chancellor’s vision into tangible outcomes. For now, the institution has set its sights on becoming a leading hub for research and innovation in Africa, with a clear commitment to academic excellence and societal impact.
