Dominican University, Ibadan, on behalf of its Board of Trustees, Governing Council, Senate, and the entire university community, on Wednesday, January 21, 2025, formally inducted fresh students at its 9th Matriculation Ceremony for the 2025/2026 academic session.
The ceremony took place at the DU Multipurpose Auditorium, Dominican University, Ibadan, Samonda Campus.
The event attracted a distinguished gathering of stakeholders in education and public service, including the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Jacinta Opara; the Commissioner for Transport, Enugu State, Dr. Ozor Obi; principal officers of the University; deans and sub-deans; heads of departments; lecturers; chaplains; officials of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB); as well as parents, guardians, and an enthusiastic assembly of newly admitted students.
In her welcome address, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Jacinta Opara, expressed delight in formally welcoming the new students into the Dominican University academic family. She reaffirmed the University’s commitment to holistic education rooted in excellence, discipline, faith, and service to humanity.
“Dominican University is founded on the pursuit of truth, the dignity of the human person, and the integration of faith and reason,” Professor Opara said. “Our mission is to form intellectually sound, morally upright, and socially responsible graduates who are equipped to serve both God and society.”
She described the matriculation ceremony as a significant rite of passage that confers full academic membership on the students. “By the simple but solemn act of signing the matriculation register, you are now bona fide members of this University community, with the right to attend lectures, register for courses, and sit for examinations,” she explained.
The Vice-Chancellor further charged the students to uphold the University’s values, maintain exemplary conduct, and pursue their studies with dedication and integrity.
“The certificate you will earn at the end of your programme is a reflection of both your academic performance and your moral character,” she cautioned. “Avoid violence, shun examination malpractice, and remain focused on your purpose and education.”
The matriculation lecture was delivered by the Commissioner for Transport, Enugu State, Dr. Ozor Obi, who challenged the students to see themselves as builders and problem-solvers rather than passive observers of Nigeria’s challenges.
“You are being equipped here not to be spectators of national problems, but active contributors to authentic development,” he said. “Do not be intimidated by complexity. Be curious, disciplined, innovative, and learn to apply your knowledge practically and technically.”
Dr. Obi encouraged students across disciplines to acquire basic software and digital skills, stressing that learning must extend beyond the classroom. He also underscored the University’s commitment to inclusion and excellence, urging students to rise above ethnic, religious, and gender divisions.
“Nigeria is too divided. You must go beyond religion, ethnicity, and destructive criticism. Respect the dignity of every person—across gender, beliefs, and abilities,” he said.
He further challenged the matriculants to choose integrity over shortcuts, discipline over distraction, and service over self-interest. “In a society where standards are often compromised and mediocrity excused, I challenge you to be disciplined. Reject examination malpractice. Choose integrity. Choose service.”
Addressing the realities of university life, Dr. Obi reminded the students that academic, emotional, psychological, and spiritual demands would shape them into resilient individuals.
“Strength is not found in pretending to know everything, but in committing daily to growth and self-improvement,” he noted. “You are the future professionals, technocrats, innovators, and leaders Nigeria is counting on.”
The highlight of the ceremony was the administration of the matriculation oath, during which the new students solemnly pledged allegiance to the rules, regulations, and ethical standards of Dominican University. The oath signifies their formal acceptance of academic discipline, respect for authority, and commitment to responsible conduct throughout their stay in the institution.
With the signing of the matriculation register and the oath-taking completed, the students were officially admitted into the University’s academic community.
The ceremony concluded on a note of hope and aspiration, as the University leadership expressed confidence that the new students would uphold the ideals of Dominican University and contribute meaningfully to society.
“When I return here in four years,” Dr. Obi remarked, “I hope to meet innovators, professionals, entrepreneurs, public servants, and leaders—men and women ready to compete globally while solving Africa’s problems locally.”
As Dominican University, Ibadan continues its steady rise in academic excellence, the 9th Matriculation Ceremony marked yet another milestone in its mission to nurture principled leaders equipped for national and global impact.
