The African Regional Centre for Space Science and Technology Education in English
(ARCSSTE-E) successfully organized an orientation programme for its 2026 Postgraduate
Diploma (PGD) students on Thursday March 27, 2026. The event took place at the ARCSSTE-
E’s Space Museum of the Obafemi Awolowo University Campus, Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria
and was aimed at welcoming the PGD students and introducing them to the Centre’s academic
environment, expectations, and campus facilities.
The programme began with the introduction of the Centre’s top Management Staff, including
the Director, Engr. Dr. Seyi F. Olatoyinbo; the Head of Finance & Accounts, Alh. Abdulraheem
Shuaib; the Head of Administration, Mr. Samam Obaguo; and the Head of Academic
Programmes, Dr. Felix N. Buba. Other staff members were also introduced. The students, in
turn, briefly introduced themselves, creating an atmosphere of openness and encouraging early
interaction.
In his welcome address, the Director warmly welcomed the students and gave an overview of
the Centre’s mandate, vision, and achievements. He emphasized the Centre’s commitment to
excellence in space science and technology education and noted the diverse backgrounds of the
students, which includes both military and civilian participants from different fields and from
five (5) Anglophone African countries namely, Cameroun, Sudan, Liberia, Kenya and Nigeria.
A key part of the programme was the presentation of the Code of Conduct for students carried
out by Mr. Samam Obaguo. The PGD tudents were clearly informed about the expected
standards of behaviour, discipline, class attendance, and professionalism. Emphasis was placed
on integrity, respect for rules, and adherence to academic ethics.
The academic requirements for graduation were also explained in detail by Dr. Felix Buba.
Students were guided on the course structure, methods of assessment, grading system, and what
is required to successfully complete the PGD programme. This helped to give them a clear
understanding of what is expected throughout their studies.
An interactive question-and-answer session followed, where students asked questions and
received clear responses from the Management team. The session ended with a vote of thanks
given by Alh. Abdulraheem Shuaib, who appreciated the presence and participation of both
staff and students in attendance.
As part of the orientation activities, the students were taken on a guided tour of the Obafemi
Awolowo University Campus. They visited key locations such as the Historical Museum, the
University Dam, the University Library, and other important facilities, giving them a better
understanding of their new environment.
The orientation programme ended on a lively note with a novelty football match between the
PGD Students and ARCSSTE-E Staff, which resulted in a 5–1 win in favour of staff of
ARCSSTE-E. This fun-filled sporting activity helped to build teamwork, encourage
interaction, and strengthen the relationship between staff and students.
Overall, the orientation programme was successfully executed, as it provided the students with
the necessary information and helped them acclimatize to the campus environment, while
promoting a sense of belonging, as well as fostering team spirit among all and sundry..
Written by Dr. Mariam Agboola
Edited by Mrs. Adenike Akinpelumi
Media and Corporate Communications Unit, ARCSSTE-E, Nigeria
