The School of Foundation Studies (SFS), University of Lagos (UNILAG) officially ushered in its 2025/2026 cohort with a vibrant orientation programme on Thursday, December 4, 2025, at the iconic J. F. Ade. Ajayi Auditorium.
Director of SFS, Prof. Khalid Adekoya set the tone for the event with an energizing address. He revealed that out of 5,769 applicants, only 2,946 students gained admission. Prof. Adekoya highlighted the resources available to fresh intakes and reminded them of the coveted 16-point score — the highest grade attainable. He proudly shared that 203 students achieved this feat in 2025, proving that excellence is within reach.
To further prove that excellence is achievable, Prof. Adekoya pointed out six former SFS students – now thriving in 200-level programmes – who had each graduated with 16 points in the 2024/2025 JUPEB examinations. They are:
- Darasimi Onasanya (Medicine)
- James Dennis Nater (Law),
- Bishop James (Systems Engineering),
- Faith Joash (Business Administration),
- Victoria Uchechi (Medicine) and
- Fareed Ajibola Wahab (Economics)
The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics & Research) and Chairperson of the SFS Board, Prof. Bola Oboh, encouraged the students to embrace discipline and time management. She advised them to dedicate at least two hours daily to revision while also staying alert to societal issues such as drug abuse and gender violence. Her message was clear: punctuality, attendance, and focus were non-negotiables for success.
The orientation programme featured presentations from stakeholders in key offices across the university:
- Deputy Librarian, Dr. Adetoun Adekanye, introduced students to the university’s library and digital resources. She emphasized proper conduct within the library — no eating, drinking, or recording — and urged students to engage with tools like the Open Access Catalogue (OPAC) while providing feedback to improve services.
- On Health matters, Coordinator of TIShip and NHIS, Mr. Yinusa Abiodun who represented the Medical Director, Dr. O. O. Coker reminded the students that their medical insurance was already covered. He encouraged them to use the UNILAG Medical Centre rather than seek care outside.
- Principal Assistant Registrar and Head of the Counselling Unit, Mrs. Janet Aregbesola tackled the dangers of drug abuse, debunking myths and stressing the importance of resisting peer pressure.
- Security concerns were addressed by Comrade Gbenga Esan, representing of the Coordinator of the Security Unit, Mr. D. M. Omotoso. He urged vigilance, warning against theft, impersonation, fraud, and vices such as reckless driving, assault, and exam malpractice.
- Miss Toyin Ganiyu of the Office of International Relations, Partnerships and Prospects shared valuable insights on the prospects of studying abroad.
- The Deputy Director of SFS, Dr. Ekundayo Badejo explained, in clear terms, expectations for exam conduct.
The six former SFS students who graduated with 16 points in the 2024/2025 JUPEB examinations also took to the stage to share about their experience and attainment of their incredible results. They shared practical strategies such as consistency over intensity, early preparation, using the JUPEB syllabus and recommended textbooks, avoiding distractions, praying and surrounding themselves with serious-minded peers.
The 2025/2026 SFS orientation programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Mr. Kingsley Okhiria, leaving students motivated to embark on their academic journey with confidence, discipline, and ambition.
Author: Ndidi J. Odinikaeze
Editor: Adejoke Alaga-Ibraheem
Photographer: Emeka Ezenwanebe
Photo Editor: Islamiat Akanni
