The 29th Convocation Ceremony of Ekiti State University (EKSU) was a momentous occasion, marked by a blend of nostalgia, gratitude, and vision. Addressing an august gathering of dignitaries, faculty, and graduating students, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Joseph Babatola Ayodele, delivered a speech brimming with pride and purpose.
With the grandeur befitting such an event, Prof. Ayodele acknowledged the esteemed guests, including the Governor of Ekiti State and Visitor to the University, the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, his deputy, Senators, and other distinguished figures in academia and governance. He extended a special recognition to the Chancellor, ably represented by his son, Olufunbi Olowolafe, and the Pro-Chancellor, Prof. Akin Oyebode.
Welcoming all to the convocation, the Vice Chancellor took a poignant moment to reflect on his own journey. “Standing in this very auditorium today, I am reminded of my days as a student,” he said. “It was right here, 33 years ago, that I, too, walked this path as a graduate. To now stand before you as Vice Chancellor is both humbling and inspiring.”
Expressing his gratitude, he thanked the Governor of Ekiti State for entrusting him with the leadership of the institution. “Leadership is a privilege, and I am deeply honored to serve in this capacity. The support from our visitor, the Governor, has been invaluable in shaping the direction of this university,” he remarked.
Prof. Ayodele also extended appreciation to the University Senate under the stewardship of Prof. Akin Oyebode. “A university thrives on the collective wisdom of its academic leaders, and I am fortunate to work alongside a Senate that prioritizes academic excellence and institutional development,” he noted.
The highlight of the ceremony was the graduation of 465 students, marking yet another milestone in the university’s academic journey. “Today, we celebrate 465 bright minds who have labored tirelessly to reach this point,” he announced, before breaking down the numbers: “142 PhD holders, 265 master’s degree recipients, and 58 diploma awardees.”
Addressing the graduates, he emphasized the importance of resilience, integrity, and continuous learning. “Your journey does not end here; rather, this is the beginning of new opportunities and challenges. The knowledge you have acquired is a foundation, but the real test lies in how you apply it to transform society,” he said.
He urged them to be ambassadors of EKSU’s values, stressing that education is not merely about certificates but about impact. “We need thinkers, innovators, and problem solvers. Let your education be a tool for nation-building and societal progress,” he implored.
Turning to the faculty and staff, the Vice Chancellor acknowledged their dedication to molding students into well-rounded graduates. “Our lecturers and non-teaching staff are the pillars of this institution. Without their tireless efforts, our mission would be unattainable,” he stated.
He also spoke about the university’s aspirations, touching on infrastructural improvements and academic advancements. “We are committed to making EKSU a citadel of learning that competes globally. We must continuously evolve, embracing research, technology, and strategic partnerships,” he said.
Reflecting on the challenges faced by higher institutions in Nigeria, he called for enhanced government and private sector support. “Quality education requires robust funding. We urge stakeholders to join hands in uplifting the standard of tertiary education in Nigeria,” he emphasized.
Concluding his address, Prof. Ayodele left the graduates with a powerful charge: “Go forth and make a difference. Be the leaders, visionaries, and changemakers our nation so desperately needs. The world is waiting for your brilliance.”
With that, the auditorium erupted in applause, marking the commencement of a new chapter for EKSU’s newest alumni.
