Achievers University, Owo, reaffirmed its commitment to academic excellence and student-centered learning at its 2025 Academic Staff Retreat, held on Monday 10th and Tuesday 11th March 2025 at the Prof. Isa Ali Ibrahim (PANTAMI) CBT Centre. Themed “Optimising Intellectual and Supportive Roles of Academics for Best Practice in Learner Engagements,” the retreat brought together full-time, part-time, associate, and visiting academic staff for an insightful exchange of ideas aimed at enhancing teaching and learning experiences.
Eight (8) distinguished scholars delivered gripping and insightful lectures addressing contemporary challenges, evolving pedagogical trends, and strategic innovations in academia.
Opening the presentations, Engr. Prof. Sesan Ayodeji, Visiting Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the University, examined “The Albatross of Academics in the 21st Century University – Conduct and Prospects.” He analyzed the pressures of administrative burdens, the commercialization of education, and the “publish or perish” culture, advocating for institutional reforms that balance tradition with innovation to enhance academic productivity.
Achievers University’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor Oyesoji Aremu, emphasized the importance of ethical engagement between lecturers and students in his presentation, “The Dynamics of the Lecturer-Student Relationship – Values, Ethics & Legal Contexts of Practice.” He urged the lecturers to embrace relational intelligence, adaptive teaching strategies, and mentorship while upholding professional ethics to foster academic and personal development.
Delivering the lecture, “The Teaching-Learning Milieu – Challenges, Prospects & Competencies for Academics,” Prof. Bosede Aworuwa, Director of Distance and E-Learning of Achievers University highlighted AI-driven learning, blended education models, and digital engagement as essential tools for improving knowledge delivery. She called for lifelong learning and the integration of innovative pedagogical techniques to improve student outcomes.
Dr. Ojeme Samuel, Dean of Student Affairs, explored the challenges of managing 21st-century students in his session, “Managing Students in the 21st Century – Issues, Challenges & Best Practices.” He emphasized the need for mental health support, diversity, digital integration, and student-centred learning to equip students for success in a competitive world.
Prof. Olabisi Oduwole, Director of Research, Innovation, and Linkages, in her presentation, “Research, Innovation & Development – Implications for Academic Probity,” stressed the importance of ethical research, technological advancements, and interdisciplinary collaboration. She cautioned against plagiarism and unethical publishing practices while advocating for policy-driven research culture and mentorship programs.
Prof. Peter Idowu, Visiting Professor in the Department of Computer Science, addressed “The Digital Environments & Academia – Challenges & Prospects.” He explored how AI, big data, and digital learning platforms are transforming the university system, urging academics to embrace digital literacy and integrate emerging technologies into their teaching.
Prof. Adekemi Olowokere, Visiting Professor to the Faculty of Nursing Science, delivered an insightful lecture on “Mentoring & Leadership for Effective Team Management in University Administration.” She underscored the importance of mentorship, leadership development, and administrative teamwork in creating a thriving academic environment.
Concluding the lecture delivery, Prof. Taiwo Adenegan, Director of Academic Planning and Quality Assurance, presented “Quality Improvement & Assurance for Academic Excellence at Achievers University – From Theory to Practice.” He highlighted Achievers University’s structured quality assurance framework, continuous assessment models, and the implementation of SMART objectives to uphold global academic standards.
The two-day retreat strengthened Achievers University’s commitment to intellectual growth, student-centred learning, and academic integrity. In her closing remarks, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Omolola Irinoye, commended the facilitators and participants for their engagement, urging them to implement the strategies discussed to enhance teaching, mentorship, and research excellence, thereby reinforcing the vision of becoming a world-class institution.
