On this memorable day of the graduation ceremony of Ojaja University, Ilorin, Kwara State, Chancellor Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, also known as the Ooni of Ife, delivered a speech full of wisdom and calls to action for bold educational reform in Nigeria. His plea for a comprehensive review of the country’s educational policies to address contemporary challenges and redress the continuing decline in tertiary education evoked deep reflection among participants at the historic ceremony.
The monarch stressed that despite the progress made in the education sector over the years, much remains to be done to rescue tertiary education from the current decline. He stressed the importance of educational policies fit for the 21st century, emphasizing the need for smooth and effective implementation of such policies to transform Nigeria’s educational landscape.
The Ooni acknowledged the daunting financial challenges associated with running a world-class academic institution, stressing the need to mobilize financial and material support to achieve this ambitious goal. He appealed urgently to all patriots, philanthropists, corporate entities and kind-hearted individuals, both in Nigeria and abroad, to support Ojaja University in its quest for educational excellence. Emphasis was placed on the need to equip the university with scholarships, grants, awards, modern infrastructure and other forms of support to realize the vision and mission of the institution.
In speaking of the crucial role of education in building a prosperous future economy, the Ooni’s speech resonated with current concerns in Nigeria, including high unemployment, skills gap and the need to develop a skilled workforce. The emphasis on the importance of private universities in developing a workforce that meets the needs of the modern economy was lauded by the distinguished guests present at the exceptional ceremony.
The speech by the Vice Chancellor of the University, Professor Jeleel Ojuade, highlighted the achievements of the institution as well as the challenges to sustain and enhance its academic excellence. With an impressive number of graduates in various fields, Ojaja University has affirmed its commitment to quality education and student development.
Among the eminent personalities present at the ceremony were the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, and the Soun of Ogbomoso, stressing the importance of the occasion to the educational community and the country at large.
In conclusion, the Ojaja University Ilorin graduation ceremony was more than just an academic event; it symbolised the collective commitment to educational excellence and innovation in service to society. With visionary leaders like the Ooni of Ife and strong partnerships with key stakeholders, the future of higher education in Nigeria looks bright and holds great hope for future generations.