The management of Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomoso, has firmly defended the award of First Class degrees to 94 graduating students, stating that the academic honours were strictly based on merit and academic excellence.
Speaking during a press conference held on Tuesday in Ogbomoso ahead of the institution’s 17th Convocation Ceremony, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Rasaq Kalilu, emphasized that LAUTECH maintains a high standard in its academic processes.
According to him, “All our First Class graduates and others in various categories are making their marks in their chosen fields. LAUTECH will not compromise its standards. We are pleased with the performance records of our students, both at home and in the diaspora. As a management team, we will continue to improve on our standards.”
Prof. Kalilu revealed that a total of 11,528 students will be graduating from twelve faculties this year, including 8,102 students who completed Bachelor’s degree programs.
Breaking down the figures, he stated: “Out of this, 94 are in the First Class Division, 2,086 in the Second Class Upper Division, 3,494 in the Second Class Lower Division, 756 in the Third Class Division, and 12 with Ordinary Pass.
“For Nursing Science, 7 students earned Distinction, 1,741 are in Upper Credit, and 145 in Lower Credit. For Medical Surgery, 133 students are in the Pass category, which indicates a satisfactory level of success in the discipline, unlike in non-medical disciplines.”
The Vice-Chancellor also disclosed that this year’s convocation holds special significance as the university will be celebrating its 35th anniversary since establishment, marking over three decades of academic contributions to Nigeria and beyond.
Reacting to concerns about admission quotas in some universities, Prof. Kalilu clarified that LAUTECH has adhered strictly to its allocated quota. However, he noted that the university has reached out to the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) to request an increase, especially in view of newly approved academic programs.
He said, “We have not exceeded the quota allotted to us by regulatory authorities, but we have written to JAMB, requesting an increase due to the addition of new courses.”
The university’s stance comes amid growing scrutiny over the academic credibility of First Class degrees awarded in Nigerian institutions. However, LAUTECH insists its graduates earn their honours through diligence and merit, reaffirming the institution’s commitment to academic integrity.
