The Senate of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, has elected Professor Adesola Aderounmu as the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics), one of three DVCs appointed on June 26, 2025.
Professor Aderounmu is a distinguished scholar and leader in Computer Science and Engineering, bringing decades of experience to this pivotal role. He has served as the Centre Lead for the African Centre of Excellence in Software Engineering and the Obafemi Awolowo University Knowledge Park (OAK-Park). In these roles, he’s driven initiatives that have advanced technological innovation and academic excellence.
His extensive leadership journey also includes serving as Dean of the Faculty of Technology and Head of the Department of Computer Science. From 2015 to 2019, he served as President of the Nigerian Computer Society. Under his stewardship, the Africa Centre of Excellence in ICT (OAK-Park) was established and has flourished, positioning OAU as a hub for digital transformation in Nigeria and across Africa.
“This is an opportunity to shape the future of education at OAU,” Professor Aderounmu stated. “I am committed to fostering an environment where ideas thrive.”
Professor Aderounmu’s appointment as DVC Academics carries significant implications for Nigeria’s and Africa’s information technology profession and industry. His leadership is expected to further bridge the gap between academia and industry, aligning curricula with emerging technological trends, and fostering research that directly addresses the needs of Nigeria’s evolving digital economy. His commitment to developing high-level ICT talent will contribute to strengthening the nation’s capacity in critical areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, software engineering, and digital entrepreneurship.
As Nigeria and Africa continue to embrace digital transformation, this appointment signals a continued push for collaboration between universities and the technology industry. This will ensure that graduates are equipped with globally relevant skills while advancing innovative research that supports the tech ecosystem.
This appointment recognizes Professor Aderounmu’s unwavering commitment to research, excellence in education, and visionary leadership. It marks a significant milestone in the university’s ongoing mission to deliver impactful education and innovation for national and continental development.