Impact of Orientation Programme on University Freshmen: The Example of Federal University Oye-Ekiti, Nigeria

The study surveys the impact of orientation programme on university freshmen at the Federal University Oye-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria. A sample of two hundred questionnaires was administered on the freshmen across the four Faculties of the University namely: Agriculture, Engineering, Humanities and Social Sciences and Science, with a response rate of 197, representing 98.5%. The findings revealed that orientation was educative, enlightening and interactive and it allowed for question and answer opportunity. The results further showed that direct contact and familiarity with the Principal Officers of the university is ensured while accommodation and other challenges of freshmen are addressed. Orientation programme/tours equally allow for the familiarity of freshmen with the institution. As to whether orientation was a waste of time, 193 respondents (96.5%) disagreed while 4 respondents (2%) agreed. Likewise, on whether orientation should be cancelled, 195 respondents (97.5%) said no while only 2 respondents (1%) said yes. In like manner, 192 respondents (96%) claimed that orientation talks/speeches motivate and encourage freshmen but 5 respondents (2.5%) disagreed. However, 193 respondents (96.5%) opined that orientation should be held consistently annually for freshmen while 4 respondents (2%) were against this opinion/option. Recommendations were made as appropriate in line with the findings to enhance and sustain orientation programme in tertiary institutions in Nigeria.