Alayande varsity records explosive growth as student population hits 9,620 in three years

By Bukola Hameed

Emmanuel Alayande University of Education (EAUED), Oyo, has recorded an unprecedented growth in student enrolment, emerging as one of the fastest-growing universities in Nigeria with a total of 9,620 students admitted within three years.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Olanrewaju Ademola Olaniyan, disclosed this on Monday while addressing journalists at the University’s Council Chamber as part of activities marking the institution’s 3rd Founder’s Day.

According to Prof. Olaniyan, student enrolment rose from 2,726 in the 2023/2024 academic session to 3,034 in 2024/2025, with projections showing 3,860 students in the 2025/2026 session. He attributed the growth to improved academic standards, programme expansion and public confidence in the institution.

He revealed that the National Universities Commission (NUC) has approved over 50 academic programmes across the university’s five faculties, while philanthropists sponsor the best male and female students from each faculty annually to promote academic excellence.

The Vice-Chancellor further disclosed that the university will graduate NCE holders spanning 25 years, covering graduates between 2005 and 2025, with records showing 47,623 NCE graduates produced between the 2004/2005 and 2024/2025 academic sessions.

Beyond academics, Prof. Olaniyan said from a study/analysis done from January to December, 2025 alone, the institution has contributed about ₦11.2 billion to the economy of Oyo town through housing, commerce, trade and services, noting that the university’s transition has significantly boosted economic activity in Oyo.

He highlighted students’ successes in national competitions and staff achievements, including the promotion of 86 lecturers and the award of research grants in naira and foreign currencies.

While acknowledging achievements, the Vice-Chancellor identified challenges such as funding gaps, infrastructure deficits and student safety concerns along the Oyo–Ogbomoso highway, calling for government and private sector support to sustain the university’s growth.