Popoola assumes duty as AFUED’s first substantive VC, outlines seven-point agenda
Professor Bayode Isaiah Popoola has officially assumed duty as the first substantive Vice-Chancellor of Adeyemi Federal University of Education (AFUED), Ondo, pledging to lay a strong foundation for the institution’s growth and excellence.
Popoola, a Professor of Guidance and Counselling, succeeded Professor Samuel Akintunde, who led the university in an acting capacity since its upgrade from a College of Education. He described his appointment as a “divine arrangement by God” and a call to make AFUED a centre of excellence in teacher education, research, innovation, and national development.
During his maiden address to the university community on Thursday, August 14, 2025, the new VC announced plans for structural reforms, staff development, expansion of academic programmes, and infrastructure renewal.
He outlined a seven-point priority agenda, including curriculum innovation, research in teacher education, staff capacity building, welfare of staff and students, infrastructure, ICT and learning environment, funding and income generation, as well as alumni relations.
Commending the University Governing Council for a fair, credible, and transparent selection process, Popoola praised their integrity in resisting external pressures. He also acknowledged the Paramount Ruler of Ondo Kingdom, Oba Dr. Victor Adesimbo Kiladejo, CFR, the people of Ondo, and the institution’s alumni for their role in securing university status for AFUED.
Popoola assured staff of prompt payment of salaries and allowances, promising to clear outstanding financial obligations within the shortest possible time. He also pledged constant engagement with staff unions to resolve welfare-related concerns.
Calling for unity, the VC urged staff, students, and stakeholders to work together in making AFUED a model institution for training professional teachers, educational leaders, and change-makers in Nigeria.
The inauguration ceremony, held at the Babatunde Ipaye Lecture Theatre, was attended by top dignitaries, members of the governing council, government representatives, academic leaders, staff, students, and friends of the new Vice-Chancellor.
