*"YOU MAY NOT BE PHYSICALLY PRESENT ON CAMPUS AS OFTEN AS TRADITIONAL STUDENTS, BUT YOU ARE JUST AS MUCH A PART OF THE LASU FAMILY,"* .... Professor Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, mni, NPOM, assured the newly admitted students of the Lagos State University Open and Distance Learning and Research Institute (ODLRI). The Vice-Chancellor, Lagos State University, Professor Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, conveyed this message during the Matriculation and Orientation Ceremony for the students admitted in the 2023/2024 academic session. The event took place on Saturday, 22nd February 2025, at the Moot Court, Faculty of Law, LASU main campus, Ojo. Represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics), Professor Oseni Taiwo Afisi, the Vice-Chancellor, emphasised that LASU is not solely focused on imparting knowledge; it is dedicated to cultivating leaders, visionaries, and change makers. With the ODLRI, the university has advanced its mission by providing students the flexibility and opportunity to pursue their academic aspirations, regardless of their location. She congratulated the students on their admission, recognising the significant choice they have made—one that will shape their futures both academically and personally. Professor Olatunji-Bello affirmed that ODLRI offers students the chance to study at their own pace and in their own space while remaining part of a vibrant academic community. She further noted that this flexibility is a valuable asset, albeit one that comes with its challenges. Students in this programme must be self-motivated, organised, and proactive in seeking help and engaging with their academic responsibilities. The university is committed to supporting them every step of the way, acknowledging that distance learning requires a unique set of skills. Deputy Registrar of the Counselling and Career Unit, Dr Joseph Ayeni, was represented by Mrs Bisi Olaleye, who congratulated the newly admitted ODLRI students. She highlighted potential challenges they may face and offered solutions, encouraging them to stay current with their lectures, engage with fellow students, establish a well-structured study plan, and avoid distractions. The 2023/2024 Matriculation and Orientation Ceremony was well attended by staff, students, and parents. https://www.lasu.edu.ng We are LASU, We are the Greatest!