Part time students of the Department of Religious and Development Studies at Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo, joined the Vice Chancellor, Professor Ebunoluwa Oduwole, for a campus wide fitness exercise aimed at promoting holistic student wellness.

Held on Friday at the University's sports pavilion, the session fulfilled a commitment Professor Oduwole made during the students' welcome programme earlier in the week to provide an academic experience extending beyond the classroom into physical, social and spiritual development.

Dressed in full sports attire, Professor Oduwole took part in the exercise alongside the students, demonstrating through personal example the Institution's belief that academic excellence should be paired with physical wellbeing. The Chief Coach of the University, Dr Sunday Omobhude, supervised the session, which combined aerobic exercises designed to build flexibility and endurance with a campus jog intended to boost cardiovascular health.

Reaffirming the University's commitment to producing well rounded graduates, Professor Oduwole explained that education should develop the body, mind and character together. She linked the fitness initiative to the philosophy she has championed since becoming the University's first female and fifth substantive Vice Chancellor.

Several students described the workout as demanding but refreshing, noting that it offered a rare chance to engage closely with University leadership and classmates outside the lecture room.

Principal officers who joined the exercise included the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic, Professor Afolake Olanbiwonninu; the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Administration, Professor Olukayode Binuyo; the University Librarian, Professor Bose Ajiboye; and the Head of the Department of Religious and Development Studies, Ven Dr Ayo Ogidiolu. Staff of the Sports Unit and the Public Relations Office also participated.

According to the University, the fitness exercise opens a series of planned engagements for part time students, including a networking dinner, praise and worship sessions, and a prayer walk designed to strengthen social bonding and spiritual growth among participants.

The Institution stated that combining physical fitness, spiritual engagement and social interaction reflects its broader model of education, one intended to prepare students for responsible leadership while prioritising their overall wellbeing.