The National Universities Commission (NUC) has officially granted approval to Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology (OAUSTech), Okitipupa, Ondo State, to commence several new academic programmes. This milestone marks a major stride in the university’s mission to expand its academic scope and align with global educational and technological demands.
The new programmes, which cut across undergraduate and postgraduate levels, include Cyber Security, Marine Science, and Meteorology at the undergraduate level, as well as Civil Engineering and Electrical and Electronics Engineering at the postgraduate level.
According to the approval letter dated October 23, 2025, and signed by Mr. Abubakar M. Girei, the Acting Director of Academic Planning on behalf of the Executive Secretary of NUC, the new programmes have met all regulatory requirements for academic quality and institutional capacity.
Full List of Approved Programmes
Below is a summary of the newly approved programmes at Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology:
| Level | Programme | Department | Approval Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate | Cyber Security | School of Computing | Full Accreditation |
| Undergraduate | Marine Science | School of Science | Full Accreditation |
| Undergraduate | Meteorology | School of Earth Sciences | Full Accreditation |
| Postgraduate | Civil Engineering (PGD, M.Eng, PhD) | School of Engineering | Full Accreditation |
| Postgraduate | Electrical and Electronics Engineering (PGD, M.Eng, PhD) | School of Engineering | Full Accreditation |
The university is expected to commence student admissions into the newly approved undergraduate programmes as soon as they are uploaded on the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) portal.
Strengthening Nigeria’s Capacity in Science, Technology, and Environment
The introduction of these new programmes highlights OAUSTech’s growing commitment to training professionals in critical and emerging fields. The Cyber Security programme, for instance, is designed to equip students with cutting-edge knowledge and skills to combat cyber threats, secure digital infrastructure, and protect data privacy in Nigeria’s expanding digital economy.
Similarly, the Marine Science and Meteorology programmes are poised to contribute significantly to Nigeria’s understanding of coastal ecosystems, weather patterns, and climate change — areas that are increasingly vital in the face of global environmental challenges.
Given the strategic coastal location of Ondo State, the Marine Science programme is particularly timely and relevant. It is expected to create research opportunities in oceanography, fisheries, and marine conservation while also providing economic benefits to coastal communities.
A Vision for Technological and Environmental Excellence
Speaking on the development, the Vice-Chancellor of OAUSTech described the NUC’s approval as a validation of the university’s dedication to academic innovation and excellence. He noted that the newly approved programmes align with the institution’s vision to become a hub for science-driven research, technological advancement, and environmental sustainability.
According to him, the university had undergone rigorous internal and external evaluations to ensure that its facilities, teaching personnel, laboratories, and research equipment met NUC’s high standards for accreditation.
He further emphasized that the approval will not only increase the institution’s academic portfolio but also boost its reputation as one of Nigeria’s fastest-growing science and technology universities.
Career Prospects and Industry Relevance
Each of the newly approved programmes offers diverse career opportunities for Nigerian and international students.
1. Cyber Security:
Graduates will be prepared for roles such as cybersecurity analysts, penetration testers, network security engineers, and IT risk managers. The growing need for digital safety in banking, government, and private sectors makes this programme highly marketable.
2. Marine Science:
This programme opens doors to careers in oceanography, fisheries management, environmental consulting, and marine policy development. Graduates can work in coastal protection agencies, research institutes, and marine-based industries.
3. Meteorology:
Meteorology graduates will play critical roles in weather forecasting, climate research, aviation safety, and disaster management. This is especially relevant as Nigeria continues to face challenges from flooding, droughts, and unpredictable climate shifts.
4. Postgraduate Engineering Programmes:
The postgraduate programmes in Civil and Electrical and Electronics Engineering will foster advanced research and innovation in infrastructure, energy systems, and technology development — key drivers of Nigeria’s industrial growth.
Boosting Educational Opportunities in Ondo and Beyond
The NUC approval is not only a milestone for OAUSTech but also a significant boost to higher education in Ondo State. The expansion of academic offerings will attract more students, promote local research collaborations, and contribute to national development goals.
For many students seeking to specialize in high-demand technological and environmental fields, OAUSTech now stands out as a promising destination. The university’s growing focus on practical education and community impact positions it as a leading institution in science and technology education in Nigeria.
Next Steps for Admission
Following the NUC approval, the university management has confirmed that preparations are underway to list the new undergraduate programmes on the JAMB portal. Once this process is completed, prospective students can begin applying for admission.
Interested candidates are encouraged to monitor OAUSTech’s official communication channels for updates on admission timelines, course requirements, and registration procedures.
Why This Development Matters
The approval of these new programmes represents a broader shift in Nigerian higher education — one that embraces technological innovation, environmental sustainability, and global competitiveness.
By investing in areas like cybersecurity, marine research, and atmospheric science, OAUSTech is aligning with global educational trends and contributing to Nigeria’s preparedness for the future of work, climate resilience, and digital transformation.
This development also underscores the NUC’s commitment to ensuring that Nigerian universities evolve to meet 21st-century demands, producing graduates who are skilled, innovative, and ready to solve real-world problems.
