History of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
Obafemi Awolowo University, commonly referred to as OAU, is one of Nigeria’s leading institutions of higher learning. Located in the ancient city of Ile-Ife, Osun State, the university was established between 1961 and 1962 following the submission of a report by a commission led by Sir Eric Ashby, tasked with assessing Nigeria’s educational needs. The university was originally named the University of Ife and was part of the Nigerian government’s plan to address the nation’s post-secondary and higher education requirements for the next two decades. The university’s provisional council was inaugurated on June 8, 1961, under the leadership of Chief Rotimi Williams.
In June 1970, the Western State Government enacted an edict to replace the Provisional Council Law of 1961. This law, later amended by the Obafemi Awolowo University Edict No. 112 of 1975, led to the takeover of the university by the Federal Military Government. A Provisional Council was established to govern the university’s policies and finances, which has since been replaced by a permanent Governing Council. In 1987, the university was renamed Obafemi Awolowo University in honor of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, a respected Nigerian statesman.
Initially, OAU started with five faculties: Agriculture, Arts, Economics and Social Studies (now Social Sciences), Law, and Science. Over time, new faculties were established, including the Faculty of Education in 1967, the Faculty of Pharmacy in 1969, and the College of Health Sciences in 1970. Further expansions continued with the creation of the Faculty of Administration in 1979 and the Faculty of Environmental Design and Management in 1982. In 1992, OAU adopted a collegiate system, although only the Postgraduate College and the College of Health Sciences were maintained after the system was abandoned in 1994. The College of Health Sciences now comprises the Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, and Faculty of Dentistry.
OAU also hosts several key research institutes and specialized centers, including:
- Adeyemi College of Education, located in Ondo
- Institute of Agricultural Research and Training, Ibadan
- Natural History Museum
- Institute of Ecology and Environmental Studies
- Institute of Public Health
- Centre for Industrial Research and Development
- Institute of Cultural Studies
- Drug Research and Production Unit
- Centre for Gender and Social Policy Studies
- Central Science Laboratory
- Distance Learning Centre
These units and others, like the Centre for Energy Research and Development and the African Regional Centre for Space Science and Education in English, enhance OAU’s status as a premier institution for research and education in Nigeria and Africa.
Key Information About Obafemi Awolowo University
- Motto: For Learning and Culture
- Type: Public University
- Established: 1961 (63 years ago)
- Vice-Chancellor: Professor Adebayo Simeon Bamire
- Location: Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria
Faculties at Obafemi Awolowo University
Obafemi Awolowo University is structured into 13 major faculties, which cater to a wide range of academic disciplines:
- Faculty of Arts
- Faculty of Agriculture
- Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences
- Faculty of Technology
- Faculty of Environmental Design and Management
- Faculty of Law
- Faculty of Clinical Sciences
- Faculty of Dentistry
- Faculty of Education
- Faculty of Science
- Faculty of Social Sciences
- Faculty of Pharmacy
- Faculty of Administration
Courses Offered at Obafemi Awolowo University
Obafemi Awolowo University offers a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, with over 88 academic courses across its faculties. Some of the most popular programs include:
- Agricultural Economics and Extension
- Computer Science and Engineering
- Dramatic Arts
- Law (Jurisprudence and Private Law)
- Medicine and Surgery
- Pharmacy
- Political Science
- Zoology
- Architecture
- Chemical Engineering
- Microbiology
- Public Administration
- Urban and Regional Planning
In the Faculty of Science, students can pursue degrees in disciplines such as Biochemistry, Botany, Physics, and Geology. The Faculty of Technology offers programs like Civil Engineering, Electronic and Electrical Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering. Meanwhile, students in the Faculty of Arts can explore subjects like English Language, History, and Music.
Obafemi Awolowo University has continually evolved since its inception, growing from an initial enrollment of 244 students in 1962 to a current student population of over 30,000. With its focus on research, academic excellence, and innovation, OAU remains a leading university in Nigeria and Africa, providing students with a world-class education.
Why Choose OAU?
Obafemi Awolowo University is renowned for its academic excellence, cultural heritage, and rich history. The institution is home to some of the brightest minds in Nigeria and has produced notable alumni who have gone on to excel in various fields both nationally and internationally. OAU’s campus is also a hub of intellectual activities and vibrant student life, making it a top choice for students seeking a balanced and enriching university experience.
Whether you are looking to study engineering, law, medicine, the arts, or the sciences, Obafemi Awolowo University offers a wide range of programs designed to prepare students for leadership roles in their chosen careers. With its commitment to innovation, research, and a strong cultural foundation, OAU stands out as a beacon of academic excellence in Africa.
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