The Federal University of Agriculture and Technology, Okeho (FUNATO), has begun its maiden academic session and opened its first Post-UTME screening exercise
FUNATO Begins Maiden Academic Session, Opens 2025/2026 Post-UTME
By Lukman OMIKUNLE
The Federal University of Agriculture and Technology, Okeho (FUNATO), located in Kajola Local Government Area of Oyo State, has officially commenced its maiden academic session, marking a historic take-off for the newly established federal institution.
In a statement issued on Friday, the university management announced the commencement of its 2025/2026 Post-UTME online screening exercise, inviting qualified candidates to participate in the first-ever admission process of the university.
The development formally signals the operational launch of FUNATO as Nigeria’s newest science-based federal university, strategically designed to integrate agriculture with modern technology.
Reflecting on the milestone, the pioneer Vice-Chancellor, Professor Olaniyi Babayemi, described the admission exercise as a defining moment for the institution and Nigeria’s education sector.
“This admission exercise is a landmark step as we set out to build a science-based centre of excellence that blends agriculture with cutting-edge technology,” Babayemi said.
He explained that FUNATO’s vision goes beyond conventional academics, stressing that the university aims to produce graduates capable of transforming Nigeria’s agricultural and technological landscape.
The university management emphasised strict adherence to JAMB preference guidelines, clarifying that only candidates who selected FUNATO as their first-choice institution would be considered for admission in the current cycle.
According to the statement, the policy is aimed at attracting students who are genuinely committed to building the foundation of the new university.
“We are not just building a university; we are cultivating a community of scholars and change-makers,” the Vice-Chancellor noted.
The management disclosed that online registration is ongoing and will close on Monday, January 12, 2026, while the screening exercise is scheduled to run from January 19 to January 30, 2026.
Applicants are required to have:
- A minimum UTME score of 150
- Five O’Level credits, in line with national admission standards
The university said the requirements reflect its commitment to academic excellence from inception.
Babayemi further stated that FUNATO’s mission is to train students who are technologically savvy, entrepreneurially driven, and equipped to solve 21st-century challenges.
“Our graduates will be academically sound, innovative, and prepared to address complex national and global problems,” he said.
As preparations continue for the arrival of its first cohort, the management urged prospective students to complete their registration early to avoid last-minute technical issues.
In October last year, FUNATO was reportedly set to commence academic activities following official assurances from the Federal Ministry of Education. Read More
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