Overview and History of Southern Delta University, Ozoro

 
Southern Delta University, Ozoro formally referred to as Delta State University of Science and Technology (DSUST), Ozoro is a modern and dynamic institution of higher learning located in the Isoko North Local Government Area of Delta State, Nigeria. The university was officially established in 2021 and has since grown to become one of Nigeria’s notable institutions, especially in the fields of science, technology, engineering, innovation, and management studies.

The establishment of the university is a strategic move by the Delta State Government to diversify the state’s economy through education and to equip its citizens with the technical know-how required to thrive in a knowledge-driven global economy. Since inception, SDU Ozoro has shown great promise in redefining higher education in the South-South region of Nigeria, with a specific focus on practical, industry-relevant education.##Official Website and Contact Information
For prospective students, researchers, and stakeholders seeking information about the university, the official website offers comprehensive resources, including admissions guidelines, academic calendars, program descriptions, and institutional news.

Official Website: https://dsust.edu.ng

Email: registrar@dsust.edu.ng

Phone: +234 703 557 0073

Physical Address: P.M.B. 05, Ozoro-Kwale Road, Ozoro, Delta State, Nigeria

The website also serves as the primary portal for student registration, course selection, examination schedules, and access to e-learning platforms.

##Historical Background
Early Foundations: The College of Agriculture
The institution's history dates back several decades when it was originally established as a College of Agriculture. The focus at the time was to boost agricultural education and practice in Delta State, a region known for its rich natural resources and arable land. The college played a critical role in training young Nigerians in agricultural sciences, farming techniques, and extension services.

##Upgrade to Delta State Polytechnic, Ozoro (2002)
Recognizing the increasing demand for technical and vocational education, the Delta State Government, under the leadership of then Governor James Ibori, upgraded the College of Agriculture to a Polytechnic in 2002. Thus, the institution became Delta State Polytechnic, Ozoro, one of three polytechnics created simultaneously in the state. This transition was intended to support the state's economic diversification agenda and to produce a skilled workforce that could compete both locally and internationally.

During this period, the polytechnic introduced several National Diploma (ND) and Higher National Diploma (HND) programs in areas such as Business Studies, Engineering, Technology, Agriculture, and Computer Science. It witnessed rapid development, including the construction of new lecture halls, hostels, administrative blocks, and the expansion of academic departments.

##Establishment as a University (2021)
In January 2021, the administration of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa proposed the conversion of three existing higher institutions in Delta State to universities. The aim was to address the growing demand for university education, improve access to quality education, and reduce the number of qualified students unable to secure university admission due to limited space in existing institutions.

Following legislative approval by the Delta State House of Assembly and the endorsement of the National Universities Commission (NUC), Delta State Polytechnic, Ozoro, was officially upgraded to a full-fledged university known as the Delta State University of Science and Technology (DSUST), Ozoro. The transformation represented a significant milestone in the history of education in Delta State, and it marked the beginning of a new era focused on science and technology-based education.

##Renaming to Southern Delta University (2024)
In 2024, the university was renamed Southern Delta University (SDU) by the administration of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori. The decision to rename the university was rooted in efforts to reposition the institution within the broader educational and developmental goals of the state and to reflect its geographical and strategic significance in Southern Delta. The new name captures the institution’s regional identity while maintaining its core academic and research focus.

##Academic Framework and Faculties
Southern Delta University is structured into multiple faculties and departments, offering a wide array of academic programs. The university operates a multi-disciplinary approach with emphasis on science, technology, engineering, and innovation.

##Faculty of Agriculture
This faculty focuses on developing professionals equipped to handle modern challenges in food production, sustainability, and agribusiness. Courses include:

Animal Production

Crop Science

Soil Science

Agricultural Economics and Extension


##Faculty of Science
The Faculty of Science is central to the university’s mission, offering core science programs such as:

Biology

Chemistry

Physics

Mathematics

Microbiology

Environmental Science


##Faculty of Engineering
With the world rapidly moving toward industrialization and automation, the Faculty of Engineering offers top-notch engineering courses including:

Mechanical Engineering

Civil Engineering

Electrical/Electronic Engineering

Petroleum Engineering

Marine Engineering

Agricultural Engineering


##Faculty of Computing and Information Technology
This faculty aims to nurture tech-savvy graduates and innovators, offering programs such as:

Computer Science

Software Engineering

Cyber Security

Information Systems

Data Science


##Faculty of Environmental Sciences
Students here are trained to tackle issues related to the built environment and ecological sustainability. Courses include:

Architecture

Urban and Regional Planning

Environmental Management and Design


##Faculty of Administration and Management
Preparing future business leaders and public administrators, this faculty offers:

Business Administration

Accounting

Marketing

Office Technology and Management

Public Administration


##Faculty of Communication and Media Studies
Recognizing the critical role of media in society, this faculty offers programs such as:

Mass Communication

Journalism

Public Relations and Advertising


##Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences
To meet the growing demand for healthcare professionals, the university has introduced:

Nursing Science

Human Anatomy

Human Physiology

Public Health


##Faculty of Medical Sciences
Plans are underway to establish a full-fledged College of Medical Sciences, which will house programs in Medicine, Surgery, Medical Laboratory Science, and related fields. This is part of the university’s broader strategy to contribute meaningfully to the healthcare sector in Nigeria.

##Vice Chancellor and University Leadership
The university is currently led by Professor Jacob Snapps Oboreh, a seasoned academic, administrator, and expert in Operations Research and Management. He was appointed the pioneer Vice Chancellor in 2021 following the university’s upgrade.

Professor Oboreh had previously served as the Rector of Delta State Polytechnic, Ozoro, where he distinguished himself in institutional development and academic leadership. His deep understanding of both polytechnic and university administration has proven invaluable in steering the institution through its transition and establishing its academic reputation.

Under his leadership, SDU has experienced notable progress in faculty development, infrastructure expansion, curriculum design, research, and student affairs.