By Daniel Abe
The Vice-Chancellor of Venite University, Professor Charity Aremu, has called on universities to prioritise research, staff development, administrative excellence and effective leadership as key drivers of institutional growth and global recognition.
Aremu made the call at the 2026 Policy and Data Workshop hosted by Babcock University President/Vice-Chancellor, Professor Afolarin Olatunde Ojewole. The workshop, themed “From Practice to Proof: Policies, Data and Evidence for Babcock Global Standing,” examined how effective policies, reliable data and evidence-based decision-making could enhance the global competitiveness of universities.
Speaking at the event, the Venite University Vice-Chancellor stressed the need for deliberate investment in multidisciplinary research involving academic staff, administrative personnel, undergraduate students and postgraduate researchers.
She noted that universities seeking to strengthen their international standing must build a sustainable research culture supported by institutional commitment, visionary leadership and continuous professional development.
According to her, the growth and development of any university depend largely on the capacity, competence and productivity of its workforce.
“The growth of the university lies in the growth of its staff,” Aremu stated.
She explained that providing staff with the necessary skills, resources, research opportunities and professional support would enhance institutional efficiency, improve academic standards and strengthen universities’ competitiveness in the global education landscape.
The Vice-Chancellor further emphasised the importance of translating institutional policies into measurable outcomes, noting that research productivity, efficient administration and sustained staff development remain critical indicators of university performance and reputation.
She added that universities must embrace evidence-based approaches to governance, teaching, research and institutional management to achieve sustainable growth and improve their standing in national and international university rankings.
Aremu’s participation in the workshop underscored Venite University’s engagement in broader discussions on higher education development, institutional effectiveness and global visibility.
The workshop provided a platform for stakeholders to examine the role of policy implementation, data utilisation and measurable evidence in advancing university performance and strengthening institutional reputation.
As universities increasingly compete for international recognition, research excellence, effective leadership and investment in human capital remain essential to building resilient and globally competitive institutions.
Aremu’s message reinforced the view that sustainable university development begins with empowering the people whose knowledge, skills and commitment drive institutional progress.
