Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED) is a unique institution in Nigeria, known for its focus on education and teacher training. Below are 15 detailed facts about TASUED, explaining its history, structure, achievements, and contributions to education in Nigeria.
1. Nigeria’s First University of Education
TASUED is Nigeria’s first specialized university of education. It was established to bridge the gap between teacher training colleges and conventional universities by focusing on producing highly skilled educators with both theoretical and practical knowledge.
2. Named After Tai Solarin, a Renowned Educationist
The university was named after Tai Solarin, a Nigerian educator and social activist known for his advocacy for quality education, discipline, and integrity. His legacy of educational reform inspired the foundation of TASUED as a center for teacher training.
3. Founded in 2005
TASUED was officially established on 29th January 2005, when it was upgraded from Tai Solarin College of Education (TASCE) to a full-fledged university under the administration of former Ogun State Governor, Otunba Gbenga Daniel.
4. Located in Ijagun, Ogun State
TASUED’s main campus is situated in Ijagun, a town in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State. The location allows easy access for students across southwestern Nigeria and beyond.
5. Dual Mode System (Degree and NCE Programmes)
One of the unique features of TASUED is its dual-mode education system, which allows it to offer both Bachelor’s degrees (B.Ed, B.Sc(Ed), B.A(Ed)) and Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) programs. This enables students to obtain practical teacher training at different academic levels.
6. Affiliation with Ogun State Government
Although TASUED is a state-owned university, it has a level of autonomy in decision-making, funding, and academic affairs. However, it receives significant support from the Ogun State Government, especially in infrastructure development and policy-making.
7. Accredited by NUC and TRCN
The university is accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC), which oversees academic quality in Nigerian universities. It is also recognized by the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN), making its graduates eligible for professional teaching certification.
8. Home to Five Colleges (Faculties)
TASUED operates through five academic colleges, which are:
College of Science & Information Technology (COSIT)
College of Specialised and Professional Education (COSPED)
College of Humanities (COHUM)
College of Social and Management Sciences (COSMAS)
College of Vocational and Technology Education (COVTED)
Each college offers specialized courses that align with Nigeria’s educational needs.
9. Strong Focus on Entrepreneurship and Skill Acquisition
TASUED integrates entrepreneurship education into its curriculum, ensuring that graduates have business and vocational skills alongside their academic knowledge. The Centre for Entrepreneurship and Vocational Studies trains students in various skills, including fashion design, photography, and digital marketing.
10. Active Student Unionism and Leadership Training
The Tai Solarin University of Education Students’ Union (TASUEDSU) plays an active role in student governance, representing students in university decision-making and organizing events. The university also encourages leadership development through various student-led organizations.
11. Strong ICT and Digital Learning Integration
TASUED is known for adopting Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in its teaching and administrative processes. The university provides e-learning resources, digital libraries, and online course registration platforms to enhance learning experiences.
12. Hosts the Annual TASUED ICT Summit
The university organizes an ICT summit annually, bringing together experts, students, and educators to discuss advancements in technology and how they can be applied to education and research.
13. Rich Sports Culture and Student Activities
TASUED is active in sports and extracurricular activities, with facilities for football, athletics, basketball, and more. The institution participates in the Nigerian University Games Association (NUGA) and other inter-university competitions.
14. Produces Thousands of Teachers Annually
As a dedicated university of education, TASUED produces thousands of graduate teachers every year. Its graduates work in schools across Nigeria and internationally, contributing to the nation’s education sector.
15. Challenges and Ongoing Developments
Despite its achievements, TASUED faces challenges such as funding constraints, student protests, and infrastructure development needs. However, the university continues to evolve, expanding its facilities and improving academic standards to maintain its position as a leading education-focused institution in Nigeria.
Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED) stands out as a pioneering institution in the training of educators in Nigeria. With its commitment to academic excellence, practical teaching experience, and entrepreneurship education, it remains an essential contributor to the development of Nigeria’s education sector.
EduTimes Africa, a product of Education Times Africa, is a magazine publication that aims to lend its support to close the yawning gap in Africa's educational development.
