National Telescope national telescope newspaper
By Deborah Odekola |
The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Professor Kayode O. Adebowale, has encouraged the university’s first-degree graduands to leverage the knowledge they gained at the institution to navigate the world, innovate, and lead in their respective fields.
Professor Adebowale gave this inspiring charge on the first day of the university’s 2024 convocation ceremonies, where graduands from various faculties, including Arts, Science, Law, Public Health, Economics, and Dentistry, were conferred with their degrees.
According to a statement made available to NATIONAL TELESCOPE on Friday, the vice chancellor reminded the graduands that education is a foundation, not a final destination.
“The world needs your talents, passion, and unique perspectives. Lead with confidence, empathy, and a commitment to making a positive impact,” he told the graduates.
He also urged the graduands to remain connected, support one another, and continue to inspire others as they become part of a global network of UI alumni committed to excellence. “Stay curious, adaptable, and open to lifelong learning,” he advised.
At 76 years old, Professor Adebowale highlighted how the University of Ibadan has remained a pillar of academic excellence, producing graduates who meet both local and global standards.
He praised the institution for continuing to be ranked among the top universities in the world, a testament to its contributions in fields like science, medicine, agriculture, business, and technology.
He further acknowledged the university’s resilience in producing globally competitive graduates despite ongoing challenges, such as funding difficulties and inconsistent educational policies.
The convocation’s Commencement Speaker, Mr. Kehinde Olamide Ogunwumiju, OFR, SAN, FCI Arb (UK), Managing Partner at Afe Babalola & Co. and a proud alumnus of UI, also addressed the graduands.
In his speech titled “Gratitude: The Compass for a Life of Impact and Purpose,” Mr. Ogunwumiju urged the graduates to carry the principle of gratitude with them into the world.
He explained that practicing gratitude will provide clarity, purpose, and guide the graduates in making decisions that positively impact their careers, relationships, and lives.
“A grateful person is humble, polite, and always open to learning,” he said, encouraging the graduates to remain grounded as they embark on the next chapter of their journey.
Mr. Ogunwumiju also took the opportunity to express gratitude on behalf of the graduands to the university, their faculties, staff, and families who supported them through their academic journey.
He emphasised that their success is not only the result of their hard work but also the unwavering encouragement from their loved ones and the divine guidance that saw them through.
As part of the ceremony, several awards and prizes were presented to the best graduating students across various faculties in recognition of their academic excellence and contributions to university life.
The event marked a momentous occasion in the lives of the 2024 graduates, who were encouraged to carry forward the values of leadership, resilience, and gratitude instilled in them by the University of Ibadan.
With the guidance of their academic foundation and the support of a robust global alumni network, the new graduates are poised to make meaningful contributions in their respective fields and continue the university’s legacy of excellence.
The University produced 418 First Class graduates and a total of 6,664 graduating students from 15 faculties, its distance learning centres and affiliated institutes for its 2024 convocation.
