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The Vice-Chancellor of Dennis Osadebay University (DOU), Asaba, Prof. Ben E.A. Oghojafor, has announced that the institution is set to host its maiden convocation ceremony this week, describing it as a major milestone in the university’s steady rise.

Prof. Oghojafor, a Professor of Strategic and Entrepreneurial Management, disclosed this on Monday, March 2, 2026, during a press conference held at the university’s main auditorium in Asaba, Delta State.

The week-long activities began with the press briefing and will continue with a Convocation Lecture on Thursday, March 5, at 10:00 a.m., followed by the Founder’s Day Lecture on Friday, March 6. The grand finale, the award of degrees will take place on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at 10:00 a.m.

Reflecting on the institution’s journey since its establishment in 2021, the Vice-Chancellor said the university has recorded remarkable growth.

“We have come a long way,” he stated. “From a modest enrollment of 651 students to over 5,800 students in the current session, our growth is a testament to our commitment to academic excellence.”

According to him, the university currently has a total staff strength of 8,672, including 467 academic staff, and runs 86 academic programmes across six faculties. He noted that all programmes have secured full accreditation, except 35 that are awaiting final decisions.

At the maiden convocation, 416 students across 28 programmes will receive degrees. The breakdown shows that 25 students earned First Class Honours, 167 made Second Class Honours (Upper Division), 185 graduated with Second Class Honours (Lower Division), while 39 obtained Third Class Honours.

The overall best graduating student, Regina Chukwufunmanya Mike-Ogisi, has already qualified as a chartered accountant, the Vice-Chancellor revealed.

Highlighting the university’s achievements, Prof. Oghojafor pointed to significant infrastructural development, including the construction of student halls of residence and faculty buildings, as well as the establishment of a fully equipped digital library with uninterrupted power supply.

He also emphasized the introduction of innovative programmes in computing and allied medical sciences, alongside a strong entrepreneurship curriculum aimed at producing employers rather than job seekers.

“Our goal is to produce globally competitive graduates who are locally relevant,” he said. “We are intentional about producing students who are worthy in learning and character.”

The Vice-Chancellor attributed the institution’s rapid development to diligence, hard work and a clearly defined vision, adding that the university has attracted visiting professors and lecturers from established institutions to strengthen its academic standards.

He expressed appreciation to the government and people of Delta State, particularly former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, for the opportunity to serve as pioneer Vice-Chancellor.

“Serving as pioneer Vice-Chancellor has been a sour and sweet experience,” he remarked.

The convocation ceremony will also feature an exhibition and alumni reception, providing opportunities for networking and showcasing the university’s facilities.

Prof. Oghojafor concluded that the maiden convocation marks a defining moment in DOU’s journey toward becoming a world-class institution and invited members of the media and the public to be part of the historic celebration.