Covenant University recently played host to Dr. Oluseye Onajole, a distinguished Professor of Chemistry at Roosevelt University, Chicago, as part of the prestigious Carnegie African Diaspora Fellowship Program (CADEP). His five-week academic engagement at the university was marked by impactful mentorship, curriculum development, and a groundbreaking peer tutoring initiative.

Dr. Onajole’s visit, which began on January 31, 2025, was orchestrated through a collaborative effort initiated by Professor Akan Bassey Williams, Director of the Covenant University Central Instrumentation Research Facility (CUCIRF). The fellowship was one out of 60 successful applications from the 200 submitted, signifying a major academic milestone for the institution.

During his time at Covenant University, Dr. Onajole spearheaded a Medicinal Chemistry Short Course, benefiting 60 postgraduate students across multiple departments, including Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biological Sciences, and Computer and Information Science. Faculty members and staff also participated in the enriching program. His contributions included lectures, student presentations on medicinal plants, and hands-on training, culminating in a certification ceremony for participants.

In an effort to enhance academic support for struggling students, Dr. Onajole established a peer tutoring program, appointing six peer tutors through a rigorous selection process. To ensure sustainability, he pledged financial support for the next two academic sessions and proposed that the initiative be absorbed into Covenant University’s Work-Study Program. He also advocated for the integration of Introduction to Medicinal Chemistry into the Master’s curriculum as an elective course.

Beyond academic contributions, Dr. Onajole actively engaged in the University’s spiritual life, attending Chapel services and interacting with the Chancellor. His dedication extended to securing supplemental funding for advanced laboratory methods and donating academic resources to the institution.

During his departure meeting with the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Timothy Anake, the University leadership expressed immense appreciation for his contributions. Professor Anake commended Dr. Onajole’s commitment to student success and emphasized the importance of sustaining the peer tutoring program. He also welcomed potential research collaborations and grant opportunities between Covenant University and Roosevelt University.

Other key University officials, including the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor Lanre Amodu, the Registrar Mr. Emmanuel Igban, and the Director, Financial Services, Pastor Samuel Audu, lauded Dr. Onajole’s impact and pledged institutional support for the continuation of his initiatives. Discussions were also held on formalizing an MOU with Roosevelt University to foster future academic collaborations.

As Dr. Onajole departs for the United States, he leaves behind a legacy of academic excellence, mentorship, and international collaboration. His visit has not only enriched the educational experience at Covenant University but has also paved the way for future engagements that will continue to transform the academic landscape.