The Federal University of Agriculture and Technology, Okeho (FUNATO), Oyo State, has taken a major step in its history with the commencement of its first academic session.
In a statement released on Friday, the university management announced the start of its maiden 2025/2026 Post-UTME online screening exercise, officially signalling the take-off of the newly established federal institution in Kajola Local Government Area.
Speaking on the development, the pioneer Vice-Chancellor, Professor Olaniyi Babayemi, described the admission exercise as a defining moment, not only for the university but for 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.
The management stressed that only candidates who selected FUNATO as their first-choice institution in JAMB would be considered, noting that the university is deliberately seeking pioneer students who share its vision and long-term goals.
According to the statement, the online registration is currently ongoing and will close on Monday, January 12, 2026, while the screening exercise is scheduled to hold between January 19 and January 30.
The university set a minimum UTME score of 150 and requires candidates to possess at least five O’Level credits, explaining that these standards are aimed at laying a strong academic foundation from inception.
Babayemi added that FUNATO’s mission goes beyond academic training, saying the institution is focused on producing graduates who are innovative, technologically skilled, and entrepreneurially minded.
“We are not just building a university; we are nurturing a community of scholars and change-makers who will transform agriculture and technology in Nigeria,” he said.
As preparations continue to welcome its first batch of students, the management urged applicants to complete their registration early to avoid technical challenges.
The statement concluded by encouraging candidates to see themselves as pioneers who will shape the future identity of the university.
It will be recalled that PUNCH Online had earlier reported on October 5, 2025, that FUNATO was set to commence academic activities following approval from the Federal Ministry of Education.
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