HISTORY OF THE DEPARTMENT

Early after the university of Ife, now Obafemi Awolowo University started, Mr Isaac Akioye was appointed to administer sports. Some structures, which included the gymnasium, were constructed for the purpose. In 1968, the need for an academic programme arose and the Senate of the University constituted the sports unit in an autonomous institute, (Institute of Physical Education) programme was approved and commenced during the 1968/1969 session. The Institute was responsible for academic programmes and was also in charge of the organization and administration of sports. During 1975/1976 session, the Institute became part of the faculty of Education offering degree programmes leading to the award of Bachelor of Arts in Education (Physical Education) and Bachelor of Science in Education (Physical Education). During 1980/1981 session, both the M.A and Ph.D (Physical Education programmes) were approved. ON the 13th of November, 1997, Obafemi Awolowo University Governing Council approved the establishment of the Sports Council. Following the pressure on the University to separate the Sports Council from the Academic Unit, the Institute was re-designated as The Department of Physical and Health Education. Following the programme review, the Department started to award the B.Ed. (Physical Education) degree in 1995/1996. On students academic performance, the Department has successfully graduated high quality human resources at both undergraduate and post-graduate levels. A manifestation of the accomplishments of the departments in this area is shown in the high ranking positions occupied by the graduates in Universities, Sports Industry, Health Establishments, National and International Managements and a host of others.