By ebosele@hotmail.com
Augustine University, Ilara-Epe, Lagos State, on Thursday formally admitted 400 new students at its 11th Matriculation Ceremony, marking the highest number of matriculating students since the institution’s establishment.
The colourful ceremony, held at the University’s Convocation Hall, signified a major milestone in the growth of the Catholic-owned institution and the official induction of the new students into academic life.
In his address, the Vice-Chancellor, Rev. Fr. Professor Anthony Alaba Akinwale, OP, warmly welcomed the fresh students and congratulated their parents and guardians for choosing Augustine University. He described the matriculation as a symbolic and defining moment in the students’ academic journey, urging them to embrace discipline, focus and commitment to excellence.
Prof. Akinwale reminded the students that education at Augustine University is rooted in the holistic formation of the human person, in line with the institution’s motto, Pro Scientia et Moribus (For Knowledge and Character). According to him, the University places equal emphasis on intellectual development, moral integrity and ethical conduct.
The Vice-Chancellor further stressed the importance of critical thinking, career focus, respect for the University’s academic calendar and adherence to rules and regulations, noting that the institution maintains zero tolerance for antisocial behaviour. He encouraged the students to channel their youthful energy towards productive pursuits and to see themselves as future leaders capable of contributing meaningfully to the transformation of Nigeria and society at large.
The Matriculation Lecture was delivered by Professor Roseangela Ifeyinwa Nwuba, Professor of Molecular and Cellular Parasitology and Lecturer (Sabbatical) in the Department of Biological Sciences, Augustine University. In her lecture, Prof. Nwuba challenged the popular narrative that “school is a scam,” urging students to appreciate the deeper purpose of university education beyond the mere acquisition of certificates.
She explained that tertiary education is a process of intellectual formation, character building and preparation for responsible citizenship. While acknowledging the ease of access to information in the digital age, she noted that true education equips students with the ability to think critically, evaluate evidence, exercise discipline and apply knowledge ethically. According to her, information alone does not translate to wisdom.
Drawing illustrations from her scientific field, Prof. Nwuba likened education to a gradual biological process of growth and development, encouraging students to see their years at Augustine University as a period of transformation that would refine their talents into competence, integrity and leadership capacity.
A major highlight of the ceremony was the recognition of academic excellence and exemplary conduct among returning students. Letters of Commendation were presented to students who attained a CGPA between 4.0 and 5.0, in recognition of their outstanding academic performance.
The University also honoured the Best Behaved Male and Female Students with Letters of Commendation, acknowledging their discipline, good conduct and positive representation of the institution’s core values.
The matriculation ceremony was attended by Principal Officers of the University, Deans, Heads of Departments, academic and non-teaching staff, as well as parents, guardians and well-wishers who gathered to celebrate the new students’ formal entry into university life.
