It was a historic moment at Ajayi Crowther University (ACU), Oyo, on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, as Prof. (Mrs.) Ebunoluwa Olufemi Oduwole was formally inaugurated as the 5th Vice Chancellor of the institution and its first female head.
The inauguration drew guests from the University community and diverse walks of life. The ceremony was graced by eminent personalities from across the country, the University visitor, the Most Reverend Dr. Joseph Akinfenwa. Anglican Archbishops and Bishops, Chairman of the University Governing Council, Dr. Olutoyin Okeowo, principal officers of the University, as well as family, friends, and well-wishers of the new Vice-Chancellor.
In her inaugural address, Prof. Oduwole outlined a 10-point vision plan that will guide her administration. At the core of her mission, she said, is positioning ACU as a global brand through the values of teamwork, dedication, integrity, accountability, resilience, due process, professional conduct, and adherence to international best practices.
She pledged to ensure a cordial relationship between the University and all stakeholders, noting that academic renewal, infrastructural expansion, and strong governance will be the hub of her tenure.
Highlighting her commitment to academic advancement, the new Vice Chancellor announced that the University would soon introduce cutting-edge programmes, including the establishment of a Faculty of Clinical Medicine and Pharmacy, as well as a fully developed Distance Learning Programme.
In addition, Prof Oduwole stated that plans will soon be in motion to set up a Research Management and Innovation Office, which will drive ACU’s contributions to knowledge, technology, and global scholarship.
Prof. Oduwole assured students and staff that their growth and development will remain a priority under her watch. She promised zero tolerance for cultism and bullying, while, inclusive, and supportive learning environment will be features that the University will strongly promote.
In her speech, the new VC said that the faith-based values upon which ACU was founded would be strictly upheld, ensuring that moral and spiritual formation will continue to complement academic excellence in ACU.
On financial matters, Prof. Oduwole pledged to diversify the institution’s revenue streams to reduce reliance on tuition fees. She explained that new income-generating initiatives would be developed to secure long-term financial stability.
Speaking on the four campuses of the University in Oyo, Kieseni, Osoogun and Ofa Metta, she disclosed that all the four campuses will wear new look, through commitment to infrastructural development in line with her vision of creating a robust academic community.
According to her, the importance of strengthening the town-and-gown relationship is equally important to the growth of the University, promising initiatives that would link the University more closely with its host communities and wider society.
Prof. Oduwole assured that with dedication and unity, the University would not only achieve its immediate goals but also stand out as a world-class faith-based institution that blends excellence with integrity.
