Introduction

The Federal University of Technology, Akure, has announced the appointment of Professor Sesan Peter Ayodeji as the new Dean of the School of Postgraduate Studies. This appointment is effective from August 1, 2026, and will last for two years.

Background

Professor Ayodeji's appointment follows his election by his peers, a testament to his impressive academic record and research innovation. As a distinguished Professor of Industrial and Production Engineering, he brings over two decades of experience in academic excellence, research, and administrative expertise to the role.

Academic Credentials

Professor Ayodeji is a graduate of the Federal University of Technology, Akure, where he obtained his Bachelor of Engineering, Master of Engineering, and Doctor of Philosophy degrees in Mechanical and Production Engineering. He has risen through the academic ranks, from Graduate Assistant in 2000 to Professor in 2019.

Leadership Experience

Professor Ayodeji has served the University in various capacities, including as Sub-Dean of the School of Postgraduate Studies. In this role, he contributed significantly to strengthening postgraduate administration and enhancing academic processes. His dedication and contributions earned him a formal commendation for the positive transformation witnessed in the School during his tenure.

External Experience

Outside the Federal University of Technology, Akure, Professor Ayodeji served as Dean of the College of Engineering and Technology at Achievers University, Owo, between 2021 and 2024. His tenure was marked by remarkable leadership, academic growth, and institutional advancement, for which he received commendation from the University's management.

Research Contributions

As a Fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers and a registered engineer with the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria, Professor Ayodeji has made significant contributions to research in manufacturing systems, automation, industrial engineering, ergonomics, production systems, and engineering design. His scholarly output includes numerous peer-reviewed publications, patented inventions, research grants, and innovative technologies that have earned national and international recognition.

Awards and Honors

Professor Ayodeji's research excellence has been recognized through several prestigious honors, including the 2025 FUTA Best Inventor of the Year Excellence and Productivity Award and the 2022 Nigeria Prize for Science jointly awarded by Nigeria LNG Limited. He has also received several TETFund and institutional research grants that have advanced engineering research and technological innovation.

Postgraduate Mentorship

As an accomplished postgraduate mentor, Professor Ayodeji has supervised and graduated numerous Postgraduate Diploma, Master's, and Doctoral students. He has also served as an external examiner and assessor to several universities within Nigeria and abroad, contributing to the strengthening of research capacity and human capital development across the engineering profession.

New Role

As Dean of the School of Postgraduate Studies, Professor Ayodeji will provide strategic leadership for postgraduate academic programs, research development, quality assurance, innovation, and collaborations aimed at sustaining the University's reputation as Nigeria's foremost University of Technology.

Expectations

Professor Ayodeji's appointment is expected to further strengthen postgraduate education, deepen research excellence, promote innovation and strategic collaborations, and enhance the global visibility and competitiveness of the School of Postgraduate Studies.

Conclusion

Congratulations to Professor Sesan Peter Ayodeji on his appointment as the new Dean of the School of Postgraduate Studies. His rich blend of academic, research, and administrative experience, as well as his proven record of visionary leadership and institutional service, make him an ideal candidate for the role.