Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, has made an impressive advancement to the quarterfinal stage of the prestigious University Duel competition, a national contest designed to foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and innovation among undergraduates.

The University’s formidable team comprises Adesina Lekan, a 200-level student of the Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Alli Abdulquayum, and Ogungbayi Imran, who are 100-level students of the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering.

Demonstrating outstanding intellectual prowess, Abdulquayum scored 88 points, while Imran and Lekan each secured 82 points. With a remarkable team average of 84 points, OAU secured second place behind the University of Lagos (UNILAG) in the highly competitive Category 1 (Premier Universities).

The University Duel provides a dynamic platform for young innovators, scientists, and problem-solvers to showcase their intellectual prowess and ingenuity in tackling complex societal and business challenges through technology-driven solutions. Participants also stand a chance to win cash prizes, trophies, and development grants.

Congratulating the university’s representatives on their outstanding feat, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Adebayo Simeon Bamire, lauded their dedication, resilience, and intellectual excellence. “This achievement is a testament to the brilliance and competitive spirit that Obafemi Awolowo University embodies. Our students have once again proven that OAU remains a breeding ground for academic excellence, innovation, and leadership. I am confident that they will continue to shine as they advance further in the competition,” he said.

Professor Bamire commended the Dean of Students Affairs, Professor Adeolu Odedire, and the entire staff of the Division for the steadfast commitment to student development and academic excellence. The VC noted that under Professor Odedire’s leadership, students have continued to excel in national and international competitions, reinforcing OAU’s reputation as a hub of intellectual distinction. “His unwavering support and mentorship have played a pivotal role in inspiring students to push beyond boundaries and achieve greatness”, he added.

The VC also commended the OAU Duel Committee, an ad hoc committee headed by the Dean, Faculty of Education, Professor Theodora O. Bello, which has the Vice-Dean of Students Affairs, Dr. L. O. Olasunkanmi, serving as the Secretary, for the great job done in the selection process of deserving students through rigorous academic ingenuity and intense assessment, which eventually produced the three (3) representatives that have done the University proud.

While commenting on the attainment of the students in the competition, the Dean of Student Affairs said, “I am immensely proud of our brilliant students for their outstanding performance in the University Duel competition. Their remarkable display of intellect, problem-solving skills, and teamwork is a testament to the unwavering spirit of excellence that defines Obafemi Awolowo University.”

According to him, this achievement not only reflects their individual dedication and teamwork but also underscores the culture of academic distinction and innovation that OAU upholds. He encouraged them to remain focused, push beyond limits, and continue to make OAU proud as they advance further in the competition. Professor Odedire maintained that the entire University community stands firmly behind the students, cheering them on to greater success.

On Matchday 10, OAU advanced to the quarterfinals, unbeaten and crushing Lagos State University (LASU) 80-12. The University picked its biggest win of the competition in an explosive encounter on Matchday 08, blowing-off Veritas University 90–08. Previously on Matchday 03, OAU trounced Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) 60-20, to make a dominant statement.

As the competition progresses, the university community remains optimistic that the team will continue to raise the bar and ultimately clinch the coveted top prize.