Prof. Solomon Makinde has described matriculation as a covenant rather than a mere formality. He made this assertion during the induction of 917 new students at Crawford University, Igbesa, for the 2025/2026 academic session. The Vice Chancellor emphasised that the event marks the beginning of a transformational journey into a community of scholars.

Out of the total number of inductees, 85 were admitted into postgraduate programmes. Makinde urged the students to prioritise integrity and discipline for a rewarding academic journey. He noted that the decision of the students to study at the university reflects their confidence in the quality of teaching offered by the institution.

“Matriculation is not a mere formality; it is a covenant, a commitment between you and the university that you will uphold discipline, integrity and excellence,” Makinde stated.

He further charged the students to adhere strictly to the rules and regulations guiding the institution, specifically warning against violence and examination malpractice. He stressed the importance of the university dress code and urged the inductees to imbibe the culture of transparency and honesty.

“Adhere strictly to the university’s dress code, shun violence and examination malpractice, and imbibe the culture of transparency, honesty, humility, obedience and perseverance. Be exemplary in your conduct, as you are leaders of tomorrow. Embrace the fear of God, as the Bible teaches that ‘the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom,’” he admonished.

The Vice Chancellor highlighted that the institution, established in 2005 by the Apostolic Faith Mission, focuses on combining academic excellence with strong moral values. He noted that the university motto, “Knowledge with Godliness,” reflects its mandate to provide quality higher education rooted in spiritual values.

Makinde revealed that the new management team, which assumed office in October 2025, is committed to improving academic delivery and infrastructural development. He recalled that the institution recently celebrated its 20th anniversary and 17th convocation in November 2025, during which Prof. Felicia Alu Moh was appointed Pro Chancellor and Chairperson of the Governing Council.

Reflecting on the purpose of education, the VC cited Julius Nyerere, noting that education is a tool for fighting poverty. “Education is not a way to escape poverty; it is a way of fighting it. Your education here must empower you not only for personal success but also for societal transformation,” he concluded.