AUST Marks 3rd Matriculation Ceremony
Abuja, 2025 — The African University of Science and Technology (AUST), Abuja, held its 3rd matriculation ceremony on Saturday, April 26, 2025, with the university’s President, Professor Azikiwe Peter Onwualu, delivering an inspiring address that emphasized academic excellence, innovation, entrepreneurship, and moral integrity as core values for the incoming students.
Addressing officials from the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), university leadership, faculty, staff, parents, and students, Professor Onwualu congratulated the 119 newly admitted undergraduates for successfully securing admission through a highly competitive process. He described the occasion as a pivotal milestone in the students’ academic journey and a moment to ignite a purposeful future.
“This is more than a ceremony; it is a covenant—a pledge to pursue excellence, embrace innovation, and uphold the values of honesty, respect, and responsibility,” he declared.
He highlighted AUST’s evolution from a postgraduate-focused institution to a full-fledged university committed to nurturing a new generation of African leaders equipped for global impact. With a 100% postgraduate employment rate, the President expressed confidence in replicating similar success at the undergraduate level.
Professor Onwualu reiterated AUST’s unique learning model built on project-based learning, critical thinking, and integration of emerging technologies. He encouraged students to immerse themselves in disciplines such as artificial intelligence, robotics, digital governance, fintech, and other components of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, facilitated through the university’s innovation hub, AUSTInspire.
“AUST is not just building a university; we are nurturing a movement rooted in academic excellence, technology, entrepreneurship, and strong moral character,” he stated.
On entrepreneurship, the President urged students to become wealth creators and solution providers, noting that the future belongs to those who can innovate and adapt. “Through mentorship and support systems on campus, you can begin your own startups even before graduation,” he added.
He also emphasized the university’s zero-tolerance policy towards social vices, encouraging students to uphold high ethical standards and report any infractions. He cited a recent disciplinary action taken against a staff member for misconduct, praising the bravery of students who came forward.
Professor Onwualu acknowledged the infrastructural challenges facing the university, including electricity and water supply, but reassured the audience of ongoing improvements, including solar installations and expanded borehole projects.
Quoting global leaders such as Nelson Mandela, Barack Obama, Angela Merkel, and Aliko Dangote, the President urged students to dream big, act boldly, and remain steadfast in their pursuit of knowledge and excellence.
To parents and guardians, he expressed gratitude for entrusting their children to AUST and pledged the university’s commitment to preparing students for success in the global marketplace.
“Among you matriculating students, I see future Presidents, Governors, Entrepreneurs, Innovators, and Professors,” he said. “But only you can make that happen—by taking your studies seriously and living by our values.”
The ceremony came to an end with a call for action to embrace responsibility and seize the opportunities ahead.