Ekiti State University: A Comprehensive Biography
Introduction
Ekiti State University (EKSU), located in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria, is a prominent institution of higher learning in the southwestern region of the country. Established in 1982, the university has undergone several transformations and rebranding efforts, evolving from its initial founding as Obafemi Awolowo University, Ado-Ekiti, to its current status.
Founding and Evolution
Ekiti State University was established on March 30, 1982, by the Ekiti State Government under the leadership of Chief Michael Adekunle Ajasin, who was the governor of Ondo State at the time. The institution was initially named Obafemi Awolowo University, Ado-Ekiti, in honor of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, a nationalist and statesman. The university aimed to provide high-quality education and contribute to the development of the region and the country at large.
Over the years, the university underwent several name changes and rebranding efforts:
- In 1985, it was renamed Ondo State University, Ado-Ekiti.
- Following the creation of Ekiti State in 1996, it became the University of Ado-Ekiti.
- In September 2011, the university was rebranded as Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti (EKSU), to reflect its status as the primary higher education institution in Ekiti State.
Campus and Facilities
EKSU is located in Ado-Ekiti, the capital city of Ekiti State. The campus is well-equipped with modern facilities to support academic and extracurricular activities.
- Academic Facilities: The university features numerous faculties, departments, lecture halls, laboratories, and libraries. The central library is well-stocked with academic resources to support research and learning.
- Student Life: EKSU provides a vibrant student life with various residential halls, student organizations, and recreational facilities. The Student Union Government (SUG) plays an active role in representing student interests and organizing events.
- Research Centers: The university houses several research centers focused on various academic disciplines and societal issues.
Academic Programs
Ekiti State University offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various faculties. The university operates on a collegiate system with the following faculties:
- Faculty of Agricultural Sciences
- Agricultural Economics and Extension Services
- Animal Production and Health Sciences
- Crop, Horticulture, and Landscape Design
- Fisheries and Aquaculture Management
- Forestry, Wildlife, and Fisheries Management
- Soil Resources and Environmental Management
- Faculty of Arts
- English and Literary Studies
- History and International Studies
- Linguistics and Nigerian Languages
- Philosophy
- Religious Studies
- Theatre and Media Arts
- Faculty of Education
- Adult Education
- Curriculum Studies
- Educational Foundations and Management
- Guidance and Counseling
- Human Kinetics and Health Education
- Science Education
- Social Science Education
- Vocational and Technical Education
- Faculty of Engineering
- Agricultural and Bio-Environmental Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Computer Engineering
- Electrical and Electronic Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Faculty of Law
- Private Law
- Public Law
- Faculty of Management Sciences
- Accounting
- Banking and Finance
- Business Administration
- Public Administration
- Faculty of Science
- Biochemistry
- Chemistry
- Computer Science
- Geological Sciences
- Geophysics
- Industrial Chemistry
- Mathematics
- Microbiology
- Physics
- Plant Science and Biotechnology
- Zoology and Environmental Biology
- Faculty of Social Sciences
- Economics
- Geography and Planning Science
- Political Science
- Psychology
- Sociology
- College of Medicine
- Anatomy
- Medical Biochemistry
- Medicine and Surgery
- Nursing
- Physiology
Contributions and Achievements
EKSU has made significant contributions to education, research, and societal development:
- Research Excellence: The university has achieved notable research outputs in various fields, particularly in agricultural sciences, engineering, and social sciences.
- Community Development: EKSU is actively involved in community service and development projects, contributing to the socioeconomic development of Ekiti State and Nigeria.
- Alumni: The university’s alumni network includes prominent figures in various sectors, such as government, business, academia, and the arts.
Challenges and Development
Like many universities in Nigeria, EKSU faces challenges such as funding constraints, infrastructural deficits, and the need to continuously update curricula to meet global standards. Despite these challenges, the university administration is committed to improving the quality of education and facilities.
Future Prospects
Ekiti State University aims to enhance its reputation as a leading institution of higher learning in Nigeria:
- Infrastructure Development: Investing in modern infrastructure and technology to create a conducive learning environment.
- Academic Excellence: Strengthening academic programs and research initiatives to compete globally.
- International Collaboration: Expanding partnerships with international universities and research institutions to foster academic exchange and collaboration.
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Admission Requirements for Ekiti State University (EKSU)
Admission into Ekiti State University (EKSU) involves meeting certain criteria, which vary depending on the program (undergraduate or postgraduate) and the mode of entry (Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) or Direct Entry). Below are the general requirements for admission into EKSU:
Undergraduate Admission Requirements
- Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) Admission
- O’ Level Requirements: Candidates must have a minimum of five (5) credit passes in relevant subjects, including English Language and Mathematics, at not more than two sittings in WAEC (West African Examination Council), NECO (National Examination Council), or equivalent examinations.
- UTME Score: Candidates must meet or exceed the minimum UTME score set by the university for the particular academic session.
- Post-UTME Screening: Candidates must participate in the Post-UTME screening exercise conducted by the university and achieve a satisfactory score.
- Age Requirement: Candidates must be at least 16 years old by the time of admission.
- Specific Subject Requirements: Depending on the chosen course, candidates must have the required O’ Level subjects and UTME subject combinations.
- Direct Entry Admission
- O’ Level Requirements: As stated above for UTME candidates.
- Advanced Level Qualifications: Candidates must have at least two (2) A’ Level passes in relevant subjects, or possess NCE (National Certificate in Education), OND (Ordinary National Diploma), HND (Higher National Diploma), or a first degree in relevant fields with good grades.
- Direct Entry Form: Candidates must obtain and fill out the Direct Entry form from JAMB (Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board).
- Post-UTME Screening: Direct Entry candidates may also be required to undergo a screening exercise conducted by the university.
Postgraduate Admission Requirements
- Postgraduate Diploma (PGD)
- Bachelor’s Degree: Candidates must possess a bachelor’s degree with at least a third-class division from a recognized university or a Higher National Diploma (HND) with at least an upper credit.
- Relevant Experience: Some programs may require candidates to have relevant work experience.
- Master’s Degree
- Bachelor’s Degree: Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree with at least a second-class lower division from a recognized university.
- Relevant Field: The degree should be in a relevant field to the intended postgraduate program.
- Academic Transcripts: Candidates must provide official academic transcripts from their previous institutions.
- References: Candidates may need to submit letters of recommendation.
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
- Master’s Degree: Candidates must have a master’s degree with a minimum of a 60% average or a GPA of 3.5 on a 5-point scale from a recognized university.
- Research Proposal: Submission of a research proposal outlining the intended area of study may be required.
- Academic Transcripts and References: As with master’s degree candidates, PhD applicants must provide academic transcripts and letters of recommendation.
General Admission Process
- Application: Candidates must apply through the JAMB portal for undergraduate programs or through the EKSU postgraduate portal for postgraduate programs.
- Documentation: Submission of required documents, including academic transcripts, certificates, and identification documents.
- Screening: Participation in any required screening exercises, such as Post-UTME for undergraduates or departmental interviews for postgraduates.
- Admission List: Successful candidates are listed in the admission list published by the university.
- Acceptance and Registration: Admitted candidates must accept the admission offer and complete the registration process, including payment of the acceptance fee and other applicable fees.
Important Notes
- Cut-off Marks: The cut-off marks for various courses can change annually based on the general performance in UTME and other factors.
- Course-Specific Requirements: Some courses may have additional requirements or higher cut-off marks.
- Supplementary Admissions: EKSU may offer supplementary admission opportunities for candidates who did not initially meet the cut-off marks for their chosen courses but are willing to switch to other courses with available slots.
Prospective students are advised to regularly check the EKSU official website and the JAMB portal for updates on admission guidelines, deadlines, and specific requirements for their intended programs.
- Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) Admission
Conclusion
Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti, stands as a significant pillar of higher education in Nigeria. Its commitment to academic excellence, research, and community service underscores its mission to contribute to the development of Ekiti State and the nation at large. As the university continues to grow and evolve, it remains dedicated to producing graduates who are well-equipped to meet the challenges of the modern world.
