Overview and History of Ajayi Crowther University (ACU)

 
Ajayi Crowther University (ACU), established in 2005, is a private, faith-based institution located in Oyo, Nigeria.  Named after Samuel Ajayi Crowther—the first African Anglican bishop and a renowned Bible translator—ACU is owned by the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion).  The university's motto, "Scientia et Probita," translates to "Knowledge with Probity," reflecting its commitment to academic excellence and moral integrity  .

##Historical Background
Ajayi Crowther University traces its roots to 1853, when it was established as the CMS Training Institution in Abeokuta. Over time, the institution underwent several relocations and transformations. It moved to Lagos and eventually to Oyo in 1920. Owned by the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), it was originally known as a Grade II Teachers' Certificate college.

In 1910, St. Andrew’s College, Oyo (as it was later known) introduced a Divinity Course, which ran until 1942. In 1977, ownership of the college was transferred from the Church to the Nigerian government. Subsequently, the institution evolved into a National Certificate in Education (NCE) campus in 1980, and by 1985, it had become a fully established College of Education.

The transition from a college to a university began in earnest when the St. Andrew’s College Old Boys Association (SACOBA) proposed the establishment of a university. This proposal received formal approval from the Church of Nigeria on September 7, 1999. Ajayi Crowther University was eventually established on the historic site of the former St. Andrew’s College and was officially licensed by the National Universities Commission (NUC) on January 7, 2005.

The university is named in honor of Samuel Ajayi Crowther, the first African Anglican bishop and a pioneering Christian missionary who translated the Bible into Yoruba and several other African languages.

Today, Ajayi Crowther University offers a wide range of undergraduate degree programs across various disciplines, including agriculture, engineering, science and technology, arts, management sciences, social sciences, and law. The institution is known for its well-developed infrastructure and student accommodation. Tuition fees typically range between ?600,000 and ?700,000, and the minimum Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) cut-off mark for admission is 160.

##Academic Structure and Rankings
ACU comprises 11 faculties, including Agriculture, Basic Medical Sciences, Communication and Media Studies, Education, Engineering, Environmental Studies, Natural Sciences, Management Sciences, Social Sciences, Humanities, and Law  . The university offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, emphasizing both academic rigor and ethical values. 

In 2024, the National Universities Commission granted full accreditation to 11 additional programs, such as Business Administration, Entrepreneurship, Agriculture, Medical Laboratory Sciences, Mass Communication, Computer Engineering, Electrical Electronics Engineering, Survey and Geo-informatics, Economics, and Peace, Strategic and Conflict Resolution  .

##Leadership - Past and Present Vice Chancellors
Rt. Rev. Professor Dapo Folorunsho Asaju (2015–2020):
Professor Asaju served as ACU's Vice Chancellor from October 1, 2015, to September 30, 2020.  An alumnus of the University of Ilorin, he earned his BA, MA, and Ph.D. in Christian Studies.  His tenure was marked by significant infrastructural and academic developments, including the establishment of new faculties and campuses .

Professor Timothy Abiodun Adebayo (2020–Present):
Appointed on October 2, 2020, Professor Adebayo is the current Vice Chancellor of ACU.  Born on December 25, 1962, in Esa-Oke, Osun State, he holds a B.Sc. and M.Sc. in Plant Science from Obafemi Awolowo University and a Ph.D. in Entomology from Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH)  .

Before joining ACU, Professor Adebayo served as Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academics) at LAUTECH.  His leadership at ACU focuses on financial sustainability, infrastructural development, and academic excellence.  Under his guidance, the university has expanded its programs and maintained a commitment to producing graduates with strong moral and intellectual foundations.

##Library and Academic Resources
Ajayi Crowther University boasts a well-equipped central library known as the University Library, designed to support teaching, learning, and research across all disciplines. The library holds thousands of volumes of academic books, journals, periodicals, and digital resources. It offers access to electronic databases, including e-journals and e-books, through subscriptions to national and international scholarly platforms.

The library is automated with a functional Library Management System (LMS), enabling efficient cataloging, borrowing, and access to materials. Study spaces are available for both individual and group work, and trained library staff are on hand to provide research assistance and user education services. The library also features a dedicated e-library section, enhancing digital literacy and access to online learning tools.

##Facilities and Campus Infrastructure
Ajayi Crowther University is located on a serene and expansive campus in Oyo, Oyo State, offering a conducive environment for academic and personal development. Its infrastructure reflects a blend of historic architecture and modern facilities.

Key Facilities Include:

Faculty Buildings & Lecture Theatres: Well-equipped with multimedia teaching aids and ergonomic seating to support effective learning.

Science and Engineering Laboratories: State-of-the-art facilities for practical instruction and research in natural sciences, computer science, and engineering.

ICT Centre: Provides internet access, software training, and digital literacy programs. Wi-Fi is accessible throughout the campus.

Student Hostels: Comfortable accommodation for male and female students with basic amenities, 24-hour security, and maintenance services.

Medical Centre: Staffed with qualified healthcare professionals providing medical care and emergency services to students and staff.

Chapel of the Resurrection: As a faith-based institution, spiritual development is supported by regular chapel services, fellowships, and theological programs.

Sports and Recreational Facilities: Sports fields, basketball and volleyball courts, and gym equipment to promote physical well-being and team spirit.

Entrepreneurship Centre: Focuses on skill acquisition and practical training in areas like fashion design, catering, ICT, and agro-business.


##Notable Alumni
Though relatively young, Ajayi Crowther University has begun producing graduates who are making meaningful contributions in various sectors across Nigeria and beyond. Alumni have ventured into careers in law, finance, engineering, media, education, and public service.