UniAbuja to graduuate 12, 624 students at its 29th convocation ceremony.

From Comrade Emmanuel Ologun, Abuja.

The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Abuja, Professor Hakeem Babatunde Fawehinmi, has disclosed that 12, 625 students will be graduating this year from the institution, highlighting the significance of the 29th and 30th Combined Convocation Ceremony.

During a pre-convocation press briefing, on Monday, Prof. Fawehinmi explained that the ceremony will span eight days and will be used to celebrate the achievements of the 2022/2023 and 2023/2024 graduating students of the university.

The convocation activities, he explained began with a Juma’at prayer and Inter-Denominational Church Service, setting the tone for a successful convocation.
He stated that the University has made significant progress in academic and research activities, sustaining a high level of programme accreditation and maintaining a stable academic calendar.
He said the University received approximately ₦4 billion from TETFund for the College of Health Sciences through the Provost of the College, Professor Titus Ibekwe and his team with other research grants from partners that supported various initiatives, adding that the University boasts notable research centers, such as the Cardiovascular Research Centre and the Centre for Sickle Cell Disease Research and Training, contributing to evidence-based healthcare delivery. Undergraduate research is also thriving, with students presenting projects addressing real-world challenges.
“Infrastructure development is underway, with completed projects including the Senate Chamber, Administrative Building, and Computer-Based Test Centre, while partnerships with national and international institutions are strengthening academic exchange and research collaboration.
“The University prioritises staff and student welfare, with promotions, recruitment, and professional development initiatives. Student welfare has been enhanced through improved accommodation, healthcare, and campus security.”
On financial management, the Vice Chancellor said it has been strengthened, with improved internally generated revenue and transparency and the University has also ensured discipline among students, sanctioning those who violate rules.
He said that proper security measures have been intensified, with the engagement with military and security agencies for 24 hour surveillance around the university. “Further more, the University maintains excellent relationships with host communities, recognising their importance.
“Despite challenges, the University remains committed to becoming a world-class institution but funding and infrastructure expansion are pressing needs, although strategic planning and partnerships will drive progress.”
The Vice-Chancellor expressed gratitude to the government, partners, and the press for their support, stating that he is looking forward to continued collaboration in projecting the University’s positive strides to the public.
“The 29th and 30th Convocation Ceremonies are particularly significant to the University as they celebrate the achievements of our 2022/2023 and 2023/2024 graduating sets, and to me personally as my first since assuming office as Vice-Chancellor.”
Overall, a total of 12,624 students will graduate and this includes the 29th Convocation (2022/2023 set), with First Class: 48 Second Class Upper: 2,048 Second Class Lower: 4,418, Third Class: 644Total: 7,158.
For the 30th Convocation (2023/2024 set), the breakdown included First Class: 29 persons, Second Class Upper: 1,395, Second Class Lower: 3,091, Third Class: 951.
Prof. Fawehinmi disclosed that 40,000 students are currently enrolled with a projected increase in enrolment of up to 50,000 by 2030.