18th Convocation Briefing; DELSU VC Unveils Bold Reforms Driving Global Relevance, Institutional Growth

By Faith Ebireri

The Vice-Chancellor of Delta State University (DELSU), Abraka, Prof. Samuel O. Asagba, has outlined a sweeping range of reforms, innovations, and forward-looking initiatives aimed at repositioning the institution for global competitiveness and academic excellence.

Speaking at a press conference held as part of activities marking the university’s 18th Convocation Ceremony, Prof. Asagba highlighted key milestones achieved under his administration. Chief among these is the ongoing installation of a fibre optic cable network to strengthen digital infrastructure, alongside the renovation of the Weekend Halls and the ICT Directorate at Site II. He also noted the construction of the Open Distance Learning (ODL) facility, designed to expand access to flexible and technology-driven education.

In furtherance of academic excellence, the Vice-Chancellor disclosed the establishment of the Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship Scheme for students across faculties with outstanding academic performances.

He also announced the appointment of Prof. Douglason Omotor as the third Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation), a move aimed at deepening the university’s research capacity and innovation drive.

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Prof. Asagba emphasised that his administration has prioritised internationalisation programmes, with strategic engagements already gaining traction across Canada, China, and the United States. These collaborations, he explained, are geared towards enhancing the university’s global visibility and improving its institutional ranking. He further revealed plans to establish a Space Science Centre, which, if realised, would be the first of its kind in Nigeria, as well as scholarship opportunities for staff pursuing postgraduate studies, particularly at the MSc level overseas.

The university, he added, has continued to expand its academic reach through the appointment of diaspora lecturers, both Nigerian and international, who contribute to virtual teaching, thereby enriching the quality of instruction and global exposure for students.

Addressing welfare concerns, the Vice-Chancellor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to both staff and students. He highlighted ongoing efforts to prioritise staff medical wellbeing. On student welfare, he assured that hostel facilities would undergo significant renovation ahead of the next academic session.

The Vice-Chancellor also drew attention to the revitalised work-study scheme for indigent students, noting that stipends have been increased from ₦30,000 to ₦50,000, alongside the engagement of more beneficiaries. He further underscored efforts to strengthen student engagement through sustained dialogue, maintain stable tuition fees, with the provision of a new Sienna vehicle for the Students’ Union Government (SUG), as well as structured leadership training programmes.

The Vice-Chancellor expressed appreciation to the Executive Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. (Elder) Sheriff Oborevwori, for his continued support to the institution. He commended the approval for the completion of the Administrative Building, the prompt payment of staff salaries, and the introduction of medical allowances for staff, clearing all outstanding medical bills.

“We thank His Excellency Rt. Hon. (Elder) Sheriff Oborevwori, for his unprecedented investment in the history of the institution, while we celebrate these achievements, we remain mindful of the challenges that persist, particularly the financial demands of running a government-owned university, including security, power supply, accreditation, staffing, and infrastructure maintenance.”

He therefore called for sustained support from government and critical stakeholders, identifying the construction of a modern sports complex as a pressing priority. To this end, he noted that the university will launch a fundraising initiative to support the project.

Prof. Asagba further noted DELSU’s recent ranking as the fourth-best university, attributing this progress to deliberate policies aimed at equipping students with not only academic qualifications but also practical, employable skills.

He concluded by calling on well-meaning members of society, particularly Deltans, to partner with the university in sustaining its growth and development.

“Together, we can sustain Delta State University as a centre of excellence in teaching, learning, research, and innovation,” he said, emphasising that the success of state universities depends on collective responsibility.