The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Medical Sciences (UNIMED), Ondo, Professor Ebunoluwa Adejuyigbe, has called on staff and students to embrace innovation, unity and renewed commitment as the university steps into the 2026 academic year.
In her New Year message to the university community, Adejuyigbe described 2026 as a season of growth and greater accomplishments, stressing that all hands must be on deck to move UNIMED to higher heights in teaching, research and community service.
She said innovation would take centre stage in the institution’s operations this year, noting that the university would not only improve on existing systems but also introduce new methods of doing things.
Reflecting on the outgoing year, the Vice-Chancellor said UNIMED recorded remarkable achievements in 2025, particularly within the short period she assumed office, attributing the success to the cooperation and support of staff.
According to her, the university recorded the highest number of matriculating students in its history, with 1,232 fresh students admitted. She added that UNIMED also achieved a seamless matriculation exercise, as all new students were issued matriculation numbers and identity cards on the day of the ceremony.
Adejuyigbe further disclosed that the institution received international recognition as the inaugural winner of the prestigious Going Global Partnerships Awards in London, a development she said has placed UNIMED on the global academic map.
On staff welfare, the VC said the university paid the 2019 consequential wage adjustment arrears, commenced payment of the new minimum wage and also paid bonuses to all staff in December 2025 to appreciate their dedication. She added that promotion exercises were successfully conducted.
She also revealed that UNIMED now boasts a state-of-the-art internet facility serving both academic areas and hostels, while groundbreaking had commenced for the construction of two faculties and hostel facilities on the main campus through TETFund grants and partnerships with private investors.
While noting that the achievements did not come without challenges, Adejuyigbe admitted that internal wrangling and disagreements at some points slowed progress. However, she said the institution overcame them through openness, transparency and good governance.
Calling for unity, the Vice-Chancellor urged staff and students to put aside what divides them and work together for the progress of the university.
She said: “UNIMED belongs to all of us. It is only in unity that we can achieve sustainable development. If UNIMED must succeed, it is up to me.”
Adejuyigbe concluded by expressing optimism that UNIMED would be stronger in 2026, praying for peace, progress and abundance in the new year.
