The American University of Nigeria (AUN) is gradually returning to its familiar pace as staff resume work on campus and preparations gather momentum for the Fall 2026 semester.
Following the May Commencement and the subsequent summer break, activity on campus slowed considerably as students left for the holiday and the University entered a quieter period of Work-From-Home. That changed in the first week of August, when staff began returning to campus and preparations for the new academic year got underway.
Offices are busy again, staff are participating in workshops and professional development sessions, and preparations are underway to ensure that the campus is ready for the return of students.
The workshops have been an important part of the preparations, giving staff an opportunity to strengthen their skills, share ideas, improve collaboration, and reflect on how their work contributes to the success of AUN and the overall student experience.
The spirit of preparation and teamwork was also evident on Monday, August 17, when AUN President Professor DeWayne Frazier invited staff to take part in a clean-up exercise around the Residence Halls ahead of the students’ return. A sizeable number of staff responded to the call, working alongside the University’s cleaning staff to prepare the residence areas for the new semester.
The exercise reflected AUN’s commitment to servant leadership, ownership, and community service. It also provided an opportunity for staff to work together and support the cleaning team in preparing a welcoming environment for new and returning students.
At the end of the exercise, President Frazier expressed his satisfaction with the strong turnout and the enthusiasm shown by members of the University community. He thanked staff for their support and participation, emphasizing the importance of working together as a community. “Teamwork makes the dream work,” President Frazier said.
With the campus now coming back to life, preparations will intensify from August 25, when the University begins welcoming new students.
Check-in and orientation activities are scheduled to begin on August 26, giving incoming students their first opportunity to settle into campus life, meet members of the AUN community, and become familiar with the University’s environment, resources, and expectations.
The following day, August 27, AUN President Professor DeWayne Frazier will host the President’s Welcome, formally receiving the new students into the University community. The day will also feature the President’s Dinner, providing students with an opportunity to interact with University leadership and other members of the AUN community.
Orientation activities will continue with the Pledge Ceremony on Monday, August 31, when students will affirm their commitment to the values and responsibilities of membership in the AUN community.
The first classes of the Fall 2026 semester will begin on September 1, marking the official start of a new academic year.
By Joshua Joy Jiya