Bowen physiotherapy graduates hit 300 as varsity holds 6th induction ceremony

The Provost of the College of Health Sciences, Bowen University, Iwo, Osun State, Professor O.T. Awotunde, has announced that the university has produced a total of 300 Physiotherapy graduates for the Nigerian and international healthcare labour markets since the programme’s accreditation by the National Universities Commission (NUC) and the Medical Rehabilitation Therapists Board of Nigeria (MRTB).

He made the disclosure at the 6th induction ceremony of the 2025 set, which featured 68 new Physiotherapy graduates taking the MRTB induction oath.

According to the Provost, “in 2020, 18 pioneer Physiotherapy graduating students were presented for MRTB induction; in 2021, 35 were inducted; 62 in 2022; 53 in 2023; 64 in 2024; and 68 graduating students for the 2025 academic session.”

Professor Awotunde attributed the success of the Physiotherapy programme to committed academic staff, a conducive learning environment and adequate teaching and research facilities provided by the university.

He explained that Bowen University’s focus on godliness in education, alongside academic and research training, has made Bowen Physiotherapy graduates highly sought after in the labour market, practising with skill and integrity.

He also said the university is ready to increase its quota to produce more healthcare personnel, but stressed that private universities need federal support to upgrade research and teaching facilities to meet growing demand.

“Availability of research grants in private universities will go a long way to promote capacity building process in the institutions. Physiotherapists’ services are inevitable in the health sector,” he said.

One of the parents of the inductees, Dr. Afolabi Adegboyega, praised Bowen University’s quality education, comparing it to that of first-generation universities. He highlighted the added value of godliness, entrepreneurship, innovation and social responsibility training, which influence parents’ choice of Bowen. He also cited academic stability as a key factor giving Bowen Physiotherapy graduates an edge.

Dr. Afolabi urged the university to maintain its standards.

Guest lecturer Professor Adesola Odole, speaking on the theme “The Person Behind the Patient: A Philosophy for Meaningful Physiotherapy Practice,” confirmed that Bowen produces physiotherapists who meet national healthcare needs. She emphasised that compassion and willingness to care for vulnerable patients are essential for quick recovery.

While commending Bowen for its quality teaching, research and human resources, Professor Odole encouraged the university to adopt AI technology for training and to consider starting postgraduate courses in Physiotherapy.

The overall best student of the 6th set, Aderinwale Elizabeth, said academic excellence requires hard work, good relationships with colleagues, and prayers. “No victimisation and the environment is peaceful,” she added.

The Vice Chancellor, Professor Jonathan Babalola, expressed happiness over the positive reports of Bowen graduates in their professional fields. He advised the new inductees to continually update themselves with modern technology to advance their knowledge and careers.

Registrar/CEO of the MRTB, Professor Rufai Ahmad Yusuf, in his charge, reiterated that Bowen Physiotherapy graduates are known for excellent performance and urged them to maintain global standards in the profession.

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