Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology (OAUSTECH), Okitipupa, Ondo State, has received approval from the National Universities Commission (NUC) to launch three new undergraduate programmes and higher degrees in two departments.

A statement on Friday by Temi Ologunorisa, the vice-chancellor of OAUSTECH, said the approved undergraduate programmes include BSc Cyber Security, BSc Marine Science, and BSc Meteorology.

The approved postgraduate programmes are: Postgraduate Diploma, M.Eng., and PhD in Civil Engineering, and Postgraduate Diploma, M.Eng., and PhD in Electrical and Electronics Engineering.

Mr Ologunorisa said the NUC approval was contained in a letter dated October 23 and signed by NUC’s acting director of academic planning, Abubakar M. Girei, on behalf of the executive secretary, Abdullahi Yusufu Ribadu.

According to him, the NUC approval is a testament to the university’s commitment to academic excellence and innovation.

“The new programmes will provide students with cutting-edge skills and knowledge, enabling them to compete globally,” Mr Ologunorisa said.

He, however, said OAUSTECH would begin admitting students into its undergraduate programmes once they were listed on the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB) portal.

Mr Ologunorisa thanked NUC for the approval and urged the university community to support the institution in the success of the new programmes.

Meanwhile, Cecelia Oluwamodupe, the university’s Director of Academic Planning and Quality Assurance, expressed delight at the development, citing it as a significant milestone that would enhance the institution’s visibility.

She commended the university’s leadership, particularly Mr Ologunorisa and Akimbo Adesomoju, the chairman of the governing council, for the new feat attained by the institution under their watch.

“The new programmes, especially marine science, are expected to benefit the coastal community by providing lucrative career opportunities,” Mr Oluwamodupe said.

(NAN)