The School of Foundation Studies at BYCOHTECH was established in 2012 to provide a solid educational grounding for students transitioning into higher education. Recognizing that many students needed additional support to succeed in their academic pursuits, the school was envisioned as a bridge to higher learning, focusing on essential skills and foundational knowledge.
In its early days, the school offered a range of preparatory programs, including courses in mathematics, science, and language skills. These courses were designed to equip students with the competencies required for success in more advanced studies. The curriculum emphasized critical thinking, problem-solving, and academic writing, all essential for university-level education.
By 2015, the School of Foundation Studies expanded its offerings to include specialized pathways tailored for various fields, such as engineering, health sciences, and business. This diversification allowed students to choose programs aligned with their career goals, enhancing their academic experience and motivation.
In 2018, the school underwent significant renovations to create modern learning environments equipped with technology-enhanced classrooms and collaborative study spaces. This upgrade fostered an interactive learning atmosphere, encouraging student engagement and collaboration.
Over the years, the school has built strong support systems, including academic advising, tutoring services, and mentorship programs, ensuring that students receive the guidance they need to thrive. The commitment to student success has led to high retention and graduation rates, demonstrating the effectiveness of its foundational programs.
Today, the School of Foundation Studies at BYCOHTECH is recognized for its dedication to preparing students for academic success and lifelong learning. It continues to adapt its programs to meet the evolving needs of students, ensuring they are well-equipped to navigate their educational journeys and future careers.
School of Foundation Studies (S.F.S)
History
The School of Foundation Studies (S.F.S) is one of the Schools within the College. It originated as the School of General Studies (SGS) before being renamed in 2009, following approval from the College Academic Board and the Governing Council.
At its inception, the SGS comprised two departments: the Department of Remedial Studies and the Department of General Studies (GS). Mr. Samuel Edoghotu served as the pioneer Director of SGS, with Mr. Queensoap Memory (now Dr. Queensoap Memory) heading the Department of Remedial Studies, and Mr. Francis Wakente Jocab leading the Department of General Studies.
With the change in nomenclature to the School of Foundation Studies, the departments were also restructured and renamed: the Department of Remedial Studies became the Department of Science Foundation, and the Department of General Studies became the Department of Arts Foundation. Dr. Queensoap Memory became the first Director of S.F.S, while Mr. Asara A. Asara (now Dr. Asara A. Asara) and Mr. Francis W. Francis served as the pioneer Heads of Department for Science Foundation and Arts Foundation, respectively.
In 2012, the Department of Medical Social Work (MSW) was established under the S.F.S, offering a National Diploma (ND) in Social Work. The department’s first Head was Mr. Michael Imeremu Golden. Two years later, in 2014, the Department of Biostatistics was created, also offering an ND program. Dr. Promise Azo (formerly Mr. Promise Azo) was the pioneer Head of Department.
Based on the recommendations from the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) in 2019, the Departments of Science Foundation, Arts Foundation, and Biostatistics were merged into a single unit, now known as the Department of General Studies (GS). Presently, the School of Foundation Studies comprises two departments: Department of General Studies (GS) – Headed by Mr. Emmanuel Charles- Olaud Owaba (pioneer and current HOD), Department of Medical Social Work (MSW) – Headed by Mrs. Oyikien Esuetolimo
Aims and Objectives of S.F.S
The School of Foundation Studies primarily undertakes the following roles:
* Provides a preparatory pathway for newly admitted students
* Serves as an academic bridge between various levels of education
* Equips students with essential skills required for tertiary education
* Offers an intensive probation program with qualifying exams for placement into College programs
* Supplies qualified personnel for teaching Foundation or GES courses and other programs
* Provides study materials to enhance the teaching and learning of GES courses
* Ensures continuous training and retraining of lecturers through workshops, seminars, and conferences
* Promotes research and development among foundation course lecturers
* Fosters intra- and inter-departmental collaboration to enhance GES instruction
* Maintains a healthy professional relationship with lecturers in serviced departments
The S.F.S has significantly contributed to leadership and administration in the College. Notably, Dr. Asara A. Asara served as Provost of the College from 2015 to 2022. Members from the School have held various administrative roles such as Deputy Provost (Academic and Administration), Registrar, Directors (Sports, Entrepreneurship, Industrial Training/SEWASE), Deans and Deputy Deans of Student Affairs, and Heads of Units.
We warmly invite you to explore the various departments within the School of Foundation Studies to learn more about our programs and foundation/GES courses.
Sir Ebifaghe K. Leghemo
Director, S.F.S