In a significant stride toward academic collaboration and educational access, the University of Benin (UNIBEN) has officially matriculated 170 fresh students into its affiliate degree programmes in partnership with the Federal College of Education (Technical), Akoka.
The matriculation ceremony, held at FCET’s campus in Lagos, marks another milestone in the growing alliance between the two institutions one that merges UNIBEN’s robust academic heritage with FCET Akoka’s technical expertise and urban reach.
Representatives from both institutions were present to welcome the new intakes, who will be pursuing various Bachelor’s degree programmes in education and technical fields under the affiliation agreement. The joint initiative is designed to broaden the pathways for aspiring educators and professionals, particularly those who may not have direct access to conventional university entry routes.
Speaking at the event, UNIBEN Vice-Chancellor, Professor Lilian Salami, who was represented by a senior university official, emphasized the university’s commitment to quality and inclusiveness. “This partnership reflects our belief that access to education should not be limited by geography or circumstance,” she said. “These students are as much a part of the UNIBEN community as those on our main campus.”
Also addressing the gathering, the Provost of FCET Akoka, Dr. Wahab Azeez, described the programme as a “game-changer for teacher education in Nigeria.” He praised the collaborative framework for enabling students to earn respected UNIBEN degrees while studying in Lagos.
The newly admitted students, donning academic gowns, took their matriculation oaths in an atmosphere that combined celebration with scholarly solemnity. For many, it was the first step in a journey they once thought beyond reach.
UNIBEN’s affiliate programmes have grown in reputation over the years, offering degrees in areas such as Education, Sciences, and Vocational Studies. The initiative not only addresses the surging demand for higher education but also reinforces the federal government’s vision of strengthening colleges of education through strategic affiliations.
As the 170 students begin their academic journey, the collaboration between UNIBEN and FCET Akoka stands as a testament to the power of institutional synergy and the hope it brings to the next generation of Nigerian scholars.
source: independent.ng
