The Federal University of Technology and Environmental Sciences (FUTES), Iyin Ekiti, has officially begun its 2025/2026 academic session, with Vice Chancellor Prof. Gbenga Aribisala taking the podium to deliver the inaugural lecture.
Speaking to a packed hall of pioneer students and faculty, he stressed the importance of attendance, focus, and academic dedication.
First Lecture Sets the Tone
Prof. Aribisala delivered the lecture on Introduction to Physics using PowerPoint, urging students to take their studies seriously and attend classes promptly.
“When students go for their classes, then you are producing graduates that are solid,” he said, emphasizing that education at FUTES goes beyond knowledge—it’s about skills, discipline, and attitude.
The Vice Chancellor also reminded lecturers that full engagement is mandatory.
“If a lecture is two hours, the lecturer must engage the students for the full duration.
This is part of the culture FUTES is trying to instill,” he added.
FUTES: Born to Foster Innovation and Competitiveness
President Bola Tinubu officially signed the bill establishing FUTES on February 20, 2025, creating a specialized institution designed to train professionals in agriculture, science, and technology.
According to the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, FUTES aims to enhance Nigeria’s competitiveness in the global economy and drive research, innovation, and economic growth.
Prof. Aribisala highlighted that the university is committed to modern teaching methodologies to ensure students are on par with peers at leading institutions worldwide.
“We are ensuring improved quality of teaching so that the graduates can be better.
Skills matter now, not just knowledge,” he said.
Academic Excellence and Character Development
Beyond academics, the VC emphasized that character and discipline are central to FUTES’ mission.
He warned against cultism, unregistered groups, night parties, and other distractions.
“Students should read, attend classes, and avoid distractions.
Work has commenced; it is not to join unregistered groups,” he said.
He stressed that the first-semester examinations are scheduled for April, reiterating the university’s commitment to strict adherence to academic schedules and standards.
Preparing Students for the Future
FUTES was established with a broader vision: producing highly skilled, globally competitive graduates who can tackle unemployment and environmental challenges.
Prof. Aribisala told students that their education at FUTES is designed to give them meaningful societal impact.
“We are here to mold students, not only in education, but in character.
Measures have been put in place to achieve all the lofty dreams of this institution,” he said, underscoring the university’s long-term commitment to quality education and ethical conduct.
Discipline and Commitment Are Non-Negotiable
The Vice Chancellor left no room for ambiguity: academic discipline and active participation are non-negotiable.
He cautioned both students and lecturers that failure to commit fully could compromise the quality of education and future employability.
With the maiden lectures now underway, FUTES is setting a strong foundation for its students, combining knowledge, skills, and character development to shape the leaders and innovators of tomorrow.
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