Educational Forum On Student Enrollment: Private universities seek high academic standards

In a concerted effort to elevate the standard of education in Nigeria’s private universities, top policymakers are urging Vice Chancellors and Registrars to maintain and enhance academic excellence, particularly in the admission process for new students.

This call to action was made by the Chairman of the Committee of Vice Chancellors and Registrars of Private Universities and Vice Chancellor of Lead City University, Ibadan, Prof. Kabiru Aderemi Adeyemo, during a meeting with executives of Foresight Educational Consult – the agency organising the 2025 Private Universities Educational Forum.

The event is scheduled to take place on Friday, February 14, 2025, at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan.

Addressing the organisers of the forum, led by the Head Consultant at Foresight Educational Consult, Ayodeji Michael Oshodi, Adeyemo emphasised the critical role of education in national development.

He said: “As educators, we understand that a solid education is the foundation upon which every aspect of society is built – spanning economic growth, politics, medical science, international relations, sociology, ICT, and other vital sectors. It is our responsibility to ensure that our students receive a quality education that equips them to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s future development.”

Highlighting the importance of the admission process, Adeyemo noted that universities often identify exceptional talents during student selection. He stressed that one of the forum’s core objectives is to bridge the gap between prospective students and private universities by fostering meaningful interactions.

“The annual Private Universities Educational Forum serves as a vital platform where private universities from across Nigeria engage directly with SS3, SS2, A-Level students, and JAMB candidates from diverse private secondary schools.

Through this engagement, universities offer career counseling, helping students choose degree programmes aligned with their career ambitions,” he explained.

Adeyemo also highlighted the special presentations that participating universities will deliver.

“Universities will have the opportunity to engage directly with students and their parents, highlighting key offerings such as scholarship opportunities, partnerships with professional bodies and international institutions, tuition discounts, specialised degree programmes tailored to industry needs, campus life, and the overall transition into adulthood,” he added.

He further stressed that the forum will be especially beneficial for  private universities seeking to build relationships with their target audience – parents and graduating students from private secondary schools.

In outlining preparations for the forum, Oshodi assured stakeholders of a well-organised event.

“We understand the critical timing of this event, as it coincides with the period when students and parents are making decisions about university admissions. To uphold high standards, we are collaborating with professional bodies and leading private secondary schools to ensure a productive and engaging forum,” Oshodi stated.

He also noted that universities will utilise PowerPoint presentations to showcase their academic programmes, giving parents and students the opportunity to ask questions and receive clarifications directly from university representatives.