The management of the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, through the Division of Student Affairs (DSA), has officially announced the schedule for the Orientation Programme for all newly admitted students of the 2025/2026 Academic Session.

The orientation marks the beginning of an exciting academic journey for fresh students who recently gained admission into one of Nigeria’s most prestigious universities. It serves as an avenue for them to get familiar with the university’s rich culture, academic standards, and vibrant student life.

📅 Programme Schedule

• Date: Monday, 3rd November to Wednesday, 5th November, 2025

• Venue: The Amphitheatre, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State

• Time: 9:00 a.m. daily

This three-day event promises to be both educative and inspiring, as it will introduce new students to various aspects of life at OAU — academically, socially, and morally.

All newly admitted students (commonly called freshers) are expected to attend the programme punctually and actively participate in all scheduled sessions.

🏛️ About the Orientation Programme

The orientation programme is an integral part of the academic culture at OAU. It is designed to help new students make a smooth transition from secondary school or pre-degree life into university life.

During the programme, freshers will be introduced to the rules and regulations guiding student conduct, academic expectations, and university traditions that make OAU stand out as a leading institution of higher learning in Africa.

According to the announcement by the Division of Student Affairs, the orientation will also feature interactive sessions where representatives from key university units, including the Vice-Chancellor’s Office, Student Affairs Division, Library Unit, Health Centre, and Security Department, will address students on relevant topics and answer their questions.

The orientation aims to ensure that all new students understand their responsibilities and opportunities as members of the OAU community.

🎤 Topics to Be Covered During the Programme

Throughout the three-day event, several important topics will be discussed to guide students through their academic and social life on campus. Some of these include:

1. Understanding OAU’s Academic Structure and Expectations

   • Introduction to Faculties, Departments, and Course Registration Procedures.

   • How to maintain good academic standing and avoid academic probation.

2. University Rules and Code of Conduct

   • Ethical behaviour, discipline, and respect for university authority.

   • Dress codes, hostel regulations, and penalties for misconduct.

3. Student Support and Welfare Services

   • Health care access through the University Health Centre.

   • Counselling and psychological support services.

   • Financial aid and scholarship opportunities for indigent students.

4. Campus Life and Extracurricular Activities

   • Overview of student organizations, clubs, and associations.

   • Importance of balancing academics with extracurricular engagement.

5. Safety and Security on Campus

   • Tips on personal safety and how to report incidents.

   • Role of campus security in maintaining peace and order.

6. Digital Learning and E-Resources

   • How to use OAU’s online learning platforms and library databases.

   • Introduction to the Learning Management System (LMS) and student portals.

7. Meeting with the Vice-Chancellor and University Management

   • An interactive session where new students will meet the Vice-Chancellor, Registrar, and other principal officers of the university.

   • Open discussions about student development and leadership opportunities.

🌟 What to Expect as a Fresher

For many students, this will be their first experience of university life. The orientation programme provides a unique opportunity to explore the beauty of OAU’s campus — one of the most iconic and serene in Nigeria.

Freshers will have the chance to:

• Meet fellow students from different parts of the country and beyond.

• Learn about the university’s academic and social culture.

• Receive guidance on how to navigate registration, course selection, and hostel accommodation.

• Understand the importance of discipline, time management, and self-reliance.

OAU’s orientation week is also known for its interactive sessions, entertainment segments, and motivational talks that inspire new students to aim high and uphold the university’s core values of “Learning and Culture.”

🧠 Advice from the Division of Student Affairs

In a statement issued by the Dean of Student Affairs, the Division emphasized that the orientation programme is not optional but compulsory for all newly admitted students, as it plays a crucial role in helping them adjust to life on campus.

Students are advised to take the event seriously, arrive on time, and listen attentively to all speakers and facilitators. The Division also urged students to ask questions and seek clarifications during the interactive sessions.

The DSA further reminded students that the university places a high premium on discipline, academic integrity, and respect for authority, noting that these values have sustained OAU’s reputation as one of Nigeria’s most respected tertiary institutions.

💬 Message from the Vice-Chancellor

In a goodwill message to the incoming students, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Adebayo Simeon Bamire, congratulated the new intakes on their successful admission and welcomed them to the “Great Ife Family.”

He described OAU as a place where “dreams are nurtured, leaders are made, and innovation thrives.” The Vice-Chancellor encouraged the new students to take advantage of the numerous opportunities available within the university to excel both academically and personally.

He also urged them to avoid distractions, maintain good conduct, and represent the university positively both on and off campus.

🏆 The OAU Experience

Obafemi Awolowo University, popularly called “Great Ife,” is not just a school — it is a community of excellence. Founded in 1962, OAU has produced some of Nigeria’s most distinguished leaders, professionals, and innovators.

The university is renowned for its architectural beauty, intellectual tradition, and student activism. It continues to uphold its vision of being a top-ranking university in Africa, driven by innovation, research, and community service.

For new students, the OAU experience is more than just academics; it’s about learning to live independently, developing leadership skills, and being part of a vibrant student body that is deeply passionate about knowledge and social impact.

📝 Important Note

All newly admitted students are expected to:

• Attend all sessions of the orientation programme.

• Sign the attendance register daily.

• Collect their orientation materials from the DSA office.

• Be punctual and properly dressed throughout the event.

Failure to attend the orientation may lead to delays in clearance or registration.

🔔 Final Words

The 2025/2026 OAU Orientation Programme is an exciting beginning for every new student — a time to learn, connect, and prepare for the challenges and rewards of university life.

The Division of Student Affairs encourages all freshers to take full advantage of the programme, as it will provide them with essential information that will make their stay at the university both enjoyable and successful.

As the famous OAU slogan says:

“For Learning and Culture — Great Ife! For Knowledge and Service!”

Welcome once again to the Great Ife Family — where excellence is a tradition