The Federal University of Agriculture and Technology, Okeho, in Kajola Local Government, Oyo State, has officially reached a historic milestone with the commencement of its maiden academic session.

In a statement released by the university management on Friday, the institution invited qualified candidates to participate in its first-ever 2025/2026 Post-UTME online screening exercise, marking the official take-off of the Federal institution in Oyo State.

Reflecting on the significance of the event, the pioneer Vice-Chancellor, Professor Olaniyi Babayemi, stated, “This admission exercise is a landmark step for Nigeria’s educational sector, as we set out to build a science-based centre of excellence specifically designed to blend agriculture with cutting-edge technology.”

A major highlight of the management’s statement was the strict adherence to JAMB preferences, as the university clarified that only candidates who selected FUNATO as their top choice would be considered for the current cycle.

The management emphasised that the university is seeking pioneers who are ready to lay the foundation of a legacy, adding that to ensure they admit students who are truly dedicated to this vision, candidates must have chosen FUNATO as their first-choice institution.

Babayemi further remarked on the selection process, “We are not just building a university; we are cultivating a community of scholars and change-makers who will transform the agricultural and technological landscape of our nation.”

The online registration, which is currently ongoing, is set to conclude in a matter of days, according to the official timeline.

The university management confirmed that the registration portal will close on Monday, January 12, 2026, followed by the actual screening exercise scheduled to take place from January 19 to January 30.

Addressing the entry standards, the statement noted that with a minimum UTME score of 150 and a strict requirement for five O’Level credits, they are committed to maintaining a high standard of academic excellence from the very first day.

Regarding the institution’s mission, the Vice-Chancellor noted, “Our mission is to produce graduates who are not only academically excellent but also entrepreneurially driven, technologically savvy, and prepared to address the complex challenges of the 21st century.”

As the newly established institution prepares to welcome its first batch of students, the management urged prospective candidates to complete their registration promptly to avoid last-minute technical hitches.

The statement concluded by calling on the applicants to see themselves as more than just students, but as the foundation of the university’s future.

In a final note of encouragement, Babayemi said, “To our prospective students: You are choosing to be pioneers. Here, you will find an environment that nurtures curiosity, creativity, and excellence as we begin this journey together.”

On October 5, 2025, PUNCH Online reported the FUNATO VC as saying that the institution was set to commence academic activities, following an official assurance from the Federal Ministry of Education.

The announcement was made by Babayemi in a statement.

FUNATO is positioned as a science-based centre of excellence, specifically designed to blend agriculture with technology. (The PUNCH)