NUC Approves UCH for Nursing Science Degree

November 17, 2025 OLAOLUWA AYOMIDE

NUC Approves UCH to Begin Bachelor of Nursing Science Programme

The National Universities Commission (NUC) has officially approved the School of Nursing, University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, to commence a full-time Bachelor of Nursing Science (B.NSc) degree programme in affiliation with the University of Ibadan (UI). The approval, conveyed in a letter dated November 6, 2025, marks a significant milestone in the institution’s academic and professional development.

A Major Boost for Nursing Education in Nigeria

The newly approved B.NSc programme is set to transform nursing education at UCH by offering students the opportunity to earn a university degree while undergoing highly practical, hands-on clinical training within Nigeria’s premier teaching hospital.

This initiative is expected to enrich the quality of nursing training and elevate the institution’s profile as a leading centre for health education.

“A Dream Fulfilled” — School of Nursing Principal Reacts

Reacting to the development, the Principal of the School of Nursing, UCH, Dr. (Mrs.) Adenike Olaniyi, praised the commitment of the hospital’s management team, led by the Chief Medical Director (CMD), Prof. Jesse Abiodun Otegbayo, for working tirelessly to meet the stringent NUC requirements.

Dr. Olaniyi described the approval as a “dream fulfilled” and a major advancement for Nigeria’s healthcare education system.

According to her:

“Students will now have the opportunity to pursue a prestigious nursing degree right within the walls of the University College Hospital, Ibadan.”

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She added that the programme strengthens the School of Nursing’s academic framework and aligns its curriculum with global best practices—equipping graduates with both strong theoretical foundations and high-level clinical competence.

UCH Management Celebrates Years of Dedication and Collaboration

In his remarks, CMD Prof. Jesse Abiodun Otegbayo expressed delight at the approval, noting that it stands as proof of the institution’s dedication, hard work, and collaboration with the University of Ibadan and relevant regulatory bodies.

“We’re proud to offer our students the best possible education, and this partnership with the University of Ibadan will undoubtedly enhance their academic experience.”

Prof. Otegbayo emphasized that the programme will expand opportunities for professional development, research, and innovation in nursing. He added that the initiative also strengthens the bridge between medical education and clinical service delivery.

Strengthening Nigeria’s Health Workforce

The CMD congratulated the leadership, staff, and students of the School of Nursing for their contribution to achieving this milestone, assuring them of the institution’s sustained support in maintaining high academic standards.

With the NUC approval, the School of Nursing, UCH, now joins the growing list of top-tier Nigerian institutions offering university-based nursing degrees—a development expected to improve the nation’s healthcare system through the training of globally competitive, compassionate, and highly skilled nursing professionals.