The Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) has officially launched its Peer-Assisted Learning (PAL) initiative. The program was inaugurated by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Olukayode Akinyemi, who emphasized the importance of peer-based support systems in fostering academic excellence.
“PAL encourages students to deepen their understanding by teaching and learning from their peers,” Prof. Akinyemi stated, highlighting how the initiative bridges gaps in academic support while simultaneously building essential teaching, leadership, and communication skills among students.
The inauguration was graced by a distinguished committee, reflecting a strong commitment to educational excellence. Key members included Prof. Jacob Olaoye, Director of the Agricultural Media Resources and Extension Centre (AMREC); Prof. Olaniyi Olayiwola from the Statistics Department; and Prof. Pius Dada, Chairman of the Time-Table and Examination Committee (TIMTEC). Their combined expertise reinforces the initiative’s interdisciplinary approach, aimed at guiding students across a diverse range of subjects.
During the selection process for PAL tutors, Prof. Akinyemi, alongside committee members such as Prof. Oluseyi Ojekunle, Deputy Dean of Student Affairs; Mr. Temitope Soretire, Ag. Director of the Information and Communication Technology Resource Centre (ICTREC); Dr. Oluwaseun Wale-Orojo from the Statistics Department; and Dr. Oludare Adekoyeni of the Institute of Food Security, Environmental Resources and Agricultural Research (IFSERAR), which also represented the Alumni Association, emphasized the essential qualities required for effective peer tutoring.
“The rigorous selection process ensures that tutors are not only academically proficient but also possess the interpersonal skills vital for cultivating a supportive learning environment,” the committee emphasized, underscoring their commitment to quality education.
The presence of senior academic staff and administrators at the launch further illustrated the university’s dedication to empowering students. Each member contributed unique insights from their respective fields, collectively positioning the PAL initiative as a catalyst for nurturing a collaborative academic culture.
