Prof. Ademola Ojo Emmanuel Champions Nigeria’s First University for Professional Studies
Jerry Adesewo
In a world where specialised university education is becoming increasingly crucial, institutions like the Lagos Business School, the African University of Science and Technology and Universities of Agriculture, scattered all over Nigeria have emerged as pioneers in providing focused and advanced learning environments.
These universities offer specialised programs that equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in specific fields, thus addressing the unique demands of various industries. Now, Nigeria is on the verge of another significant milestone in specialised education with the impending establishment of the University of Professional Studies (UNIPRO), Igbajo Ijesha, Osun State.
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The establishment and registration of UNIPRO by the National Universities Commission (NUC) may soon see the light of day, as it was learned yesterday. Recently, the Corporate Affairs Commission concluded the incorporation of the Ademola Ojo Emmanuel Foundation. The foundation is presently engaged in the establishment of UNIPRO, its chairman, Prof. Ademola Ojo Emmanuel, said.
The visioner, Professor Ojo Emmanuel Ademola, who is the first Nigerian Professor of Cyber Security and Information Technology Management, and the first Professor of African descent to be awarded a Chartered Manager status, as well as the #TechEMAvision columnist with Ournigerianews; said the incorporation of the foundation, with reputable trustees, means a huge leap towards the realisation of the first-ever university, wholly devoted to professional studies, in Nigeria.
A statement by the foundation reads: “As a leading scholar of international repute and Nigeria’s first Professor of Cyber Security, who sits on the board of many universities both in Nigeria and outside Nigeria, Prof. Ademola Ojo Emmanuel understands the vacuum the absence of a wholly professional university in Nigeria poses to the growth and development of the country and is poised to fill it through the establishment of UNIPRO.
“He has decades of teaching experience that traverses Nigeria, Europe, and beyond and through several professional disciplines.
“Currently, Prof. Ademola Ojo Emmanuel holds the following positions: Professor of Cyber Security/IT Management; chairman, Professor Ademola Ojo Emmanuel Foundation; the Promoter, Proposed University of Professional Studies, Igbajo Ijesa, Osun State, Nigeria; and Executive Committee Member, BCS ELITE—The Computing Leadership Forum; BCS & CMI Subject Matter Expert; Trademark Owner of Power-Age (Management Consulting); Governing Council Member, American International University, West Africa, Gambia; International Advisory Board, Dominican University, Ibadan, Nigeria; and Chair, Power-Age & Institute for Enterprise Management and Analytics.
“The Ademola Ojo Emmanuel Foundation will play a direct and critical role in ensuring the proposed University of Professional Studies achieves its mandate as a unique knowledge dispenser; a final destination in professional studies, and an important centre of professional excellence.”
The visioner, Professor Ojo Emmanuel Ademola is the first Nigerian Professor of Cyber Security and Information Technology Management, and the first Professor of African descent to be awarded a Chartered Manager Status, as well as the #TechEMAvision columnist with Ournigerianews.
The potential benefits of such a university are vast. By focusing exclusively on professional studies, UNIPRO aims to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and practical skills, ensuring that graduates are not only theoretically proficient but also industry-ready. This approach can significantly enhance the employability of Nigerian youths, foster innovation, and drive economic growth by producing a workforce equipped to meet the demands of various professional sectors.
In the modern era, where skills and capabilities have become more crucial than mere certificates, it is imperative for individuals and organizations to emulate the innovative vision of Prof. Ojo Emmanuel Ademola. Establishing specialised institutions, such as standalone theatre schools or universities dedicated to sports, can significantly enhance capacity building across the populace. Such initiatives not only provide tailored education and training but also foster a culture of excellence and specialization.
The potential impact on young Nigerians, in particular, would be tremendous, equipping them with practical skills and knowledge that align with the demands of today’s dynamic job market. By focusing on specialised education, we can ensure that the next generation is better prepared to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s development and global competitiveness.