DELSU Unveils Ambitious Transformation Agenda as VC Outlines Vision for a World-Class University
By Emmanuel Enebeli
ABRAKA/Nigeria: The Vice Chancellor of Delta State University, Abraka (DELSU), Professor Samuel Ogheneovo Asagba, has rolled out a sweeping and ambitious blueprint to reposition the institution as a leading citadel of learning, research, and innovation in Nigeria and beyond. Speaking during the 17th Convocation Press Conference held on Wednesday, April 23, 2023, Prof. Asagba declared his administration’s resolve to “hit the ground running” just four months and 24 days into office.
In a comprehensive address titled “My Vision, My Mission”, the Vice Chancellor emphasized that his transformational agenda was informed by a SWOT analysis of the university, seeking to leverage its strengths, address weaknesses, capitalize on opportunities, and mitigate threats, especially those posed by emerging universities within Delta State.
“My vision is to promote learning across Delta State and Nigeria, offer liberal education to all regardless of race, creed, or gender, advance knowledge through teaching and research, and serve humanity through academic pursuit,” Prof. Asagba said. “These dreams are captured in ‘My Vision’, while ‘My Mission’ is the implementation blueprint, which will be reflected in a strategic plan for the university.”
Central to the new DELSU agenda is the repositioning of the institution as a globally competitive university known for academic excellence, impactful research, and a strong commitment to innovation, social responsibility, and ICT integration. “We aim to transform DELSU through high-quality education, sustainable development, strong governance, and inclusive stakeholder engagement,” he said.
The Vice Chancellor highlighted his administration’s priorities, which include implementing strict quality control, recruiting highly qualified staff, updating curricula to reflect market-relevant skills, and integrating artificial intelligence into teaching and research. There are also plans to foster robust industry collaboration and establish international partnerships to boost the university’s global rankings.
To support this transformation, ICT infrastructure will be upgraded, including increasing internet bandwidth, revamping the university website, computerizing records, and restructuring the ICT Directorate to enhance technical support services.
Prof. Asagba announced the expansion of programs such as JUPEB, pre-degree, and weekend courses, alongside the establishment of new faculties: Environmental Sciences, Computing Sciences, and Allied Health Sciences. Plans are also underway to launch a Business School in Warri and to increase postgraduate enrollment in high-demand fields.
He also revealed the university’s strategy to diversify revenue sources through the reorganization and expansion of DELSU Investment Ltd., commercialization of research, the establishment of a Microfinance Bank, and consultancy services provided by university experts. Open and Distance Learning (ODL) initiatives will be expanded with Public-Private Partnership (PPP) support for critical infrastructure.
To attract resources, DELSU has set up an Endowment/Foundation Fund Committee, tasked with engaging alumni, philanthropists, and multinational organizations. The institution will actively pursue grants from international bodies such as PTDF, NCC, UNDP, and the Gates Foundation.
In terms of governance and accountability, the university has launched a whistle-blowing platform to promote transparency and fight misconduct. A Revenue Monitoring Committee has been constituted to prevent leakages, alongside a Direct Labour & Facilities Maintenance Committee to minimize outsourcing costs.
“Maintaining cordial relationships with our Visitor, the Governing Council, and host communities is also crucial,” Prof. Asagba noted. “We are committed to empowering our communities through inclusive programs and sustained engagement.”
Several newly established centres were also announced, including the Centre for Farm Management and Agricultural Extension, the Centre for National Linkages, Outreach, and Partnerships, and the Centre for Product Development and Research Commercialization.
Key appointments made since assuming office include two Deputy Vice Chancellors, new Heads of Departments, and directors across critical units, with a focus on competence, diversity, equity, and youth inclusion.
In health and welfare, DELSU has created medical screening committees and initiated plans to improve both staff and student welfare through more hostel accommodation, better healthcare services, and expanded scholarship opportunities. Campus security infrastructure is also being upgraded.
The university’s Entrepreneurship Centre will be revamped into an innovation hub, with new certificate programs tailored to state needs. Private sector collaboration will be strengthened to equip students and community members with practical skills for the job market.
“This is just the beginning,” Prof. Asagba concluded. “We are laying a foundation for a DELSU that embodies academic excellence, an innovation-driven culture, a corruption-free environment, a strong revenue base, modern facilities, strategic partnerships, and a deep commitment to social responsibility. We are focused on building a future-ready institution.”
