Pix: Representative of the visitor and VC UNIBADAN, Prof Kayode Adebowale, MNI, FAS
By Mark Mayah
President Bola Tinubu on Saturday in Abeokuta, reiterated the resolve of the Federal Government to continue to promote education and youth empowerment.
Tinubu, who was represented by the Vice-Chancellor, University of Ibadan, Prof Kayode Adebowale, MNI, FAS spoke at the 32nd convocation ceremony of the Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta (FUNAAB), described universities like FUNAAB as beacon of knowledge and innovation, shaping the future of the nation’s food security and agricultural landscape.
The president highlighted the Federal Government’s resolve to improving the educational system and fostering youth engagement in nation-building.
He emphasised the importance of education in shaping Nigeria’s future, and the role of young graduates in addressing the nation’s challenges.
Tinubu congratulated the graduands for their academic achievements, and urged them to be proactive in contributing to the country’s development.
Turning to the graduands, he said: “I urge you to embrace three vital qualities: Innovation, Integrity and Commitment. Innovation is the key to unlocking sustainable solutions. Look beyond established practices and dare to think outside the box. Nigeria needs your fresh perspectives and entrepreneurial spirit to develop homegrown solutions for our unique challenges.”
President Tinubu said: “In an industry susceptible to corruption and mismanagement, you must stand firm on the principles of ethical conduct and unwavering dedication to the greater good. Let your actions be guided by transparency, accountability and a commitment to social responsibility.”
He further said: “I encourage you to put into practice the knowledge, expertise and skills that you have acquired and make them the strong pillars on which you will build your future,” the president stated.
The president who acknowledged the crucial role that agriculture plays in the nation’s development, assured that FUNAAB, “is at the moment shaping the future of nation’s food security and agricultural landscape.”
The president, who acknowledged the current economic and security challenges facing the country, expressed optimism in the nation’s resilience, stressing that the government is committed to support Universities of Agriculture, with needed funds to commence mechanized farming.
President Tinubu commended FUNAAB for its remarkable achievements, for attaining the enviable feat of being ranked the best university of Agriculture in Africa, 7th globally, by Times Higher Education, World universities Ranking.
Earlier in his speech, the Vice- Chancellor of the University, professor Babatunde Kehinde challenged graduands of the institution to pick up bills and integrate into the new world.
Kehinde, who stated this in his address delivered at the 32nd Convocation ceremony, emphasised the need for them to be responsive and contribute meaningfully to the nation building.
The vice-chancellor said: “You stand before us not as mere recipients of certificates, but as architects of your own destinies, ready to etch your unique stories into the tapestry of our nation’s future.
“Your journey through the hallowed halls of FUNAAB has equipped you with the tools not only to navigate the complexities of our world but also to shape it into a more sustainable, equitable and food-secured one. The reality is that you are no longer where you were four, five years ago just as our university is no longer where we were. Your critical thinking ability should be activated now as society awaits the wonders of your degrees to change the situation and restore hope for a better country.
“Our nation is greatly challenged and needs problem solvers, innovative and people with the capacity for value addition which your training here offers you. You must, therefore, hit the grand running.
“As you step into the next chapter, remember the values that have nurtured your growth here. Embrace the spirit of resilience that saw you conquer academic challenges, nurture the flame of curiosity that ignited your pursuit of knowledge, and champion the principles of integrity and service that are the bedrock of a society that thrives.
“The agricultural sector, the very foundation of our existence, beckons your ingenuity. The world faces unprecedented challenges – climate change, population growth, and resource scarcity – all demanding innovative solutions. You, the class of 2024, are uniquely positioned to be the game-changers, the disruptors, the pioneers who will reshape the agricultural landscape.
“Embrace technology as your ally. Leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI), precision agriculture, and data-driven farming, you can revolutionize food production, optimise resource utilisation, and create resilient food systems. Remember, however, that technology is merely a tool. The compass that guides your actions must always be human well-being, environmental sustainability, and the pursuit of a just and equitable food system for all.
“Do not be afraid to challenge the status quo. Question, explore, and innovate. Be the pioneers who develop drought-resistant crops, efficient irrigation systems, and sustainable farming practices. Remember, the greatest breakthroughs often emerge from questioning the accepted norms and daring to tread uncharted paths.
“Beyond the fields and laboratories, remember your role as responsible citizens. Engage in your communities, share your knowledge, and empower others. Advocate for food security, environmental protection, and sustainable development. Be the voice for the voiceless, the champion of the marginalized, and the agent of positive change in your communities.
“As you depart from the familiar embrace of FUNAAB, remember that you are not alone. We, the lecturers, other staff, and fellow alumni, stand with you as a lifelong support system. We are your mentors, your collaborators, and your cheerleaders. Never hesitate to reach out for guidance, support, or simply a friendly ear,” Prof Kehinde stated.
The university graduates a total of 3,567 students with Bachelor’s Degrees in various disciplines. Out of these, a total of 120 graduated with First Class Honours Degree, 1,626 in the Second Class Upper Division, 1,624 in the Second Class Lower Division, while 164 had Third Class Degrees. The remaining 20 graduands earned the Veterinary Medicine Degree, which is not categorized/classified.
Furthermore, for Higher Degrees, the University graduates a total of 30 Postgraduate Diplomas, 274 Masters Degrees and 136 Ph.Ds in various fields.
Also, the VC explained that the university has equally added eight new academic programmes including Library and Information Science, Industrial Chemistry, Cyber Security, Software Engineering among others.
Prof Kehinde acknowledged that the university now runs 38 fully accredited programmes by the National University Commission with 54 departments.
Giving further progress of the university in the last year, the VC said that the NUC approved six research proposals of over N171m for its researchers while many of its scholars equally won international grants amounting to several thousands of dollars and Euros.
Kehinde, particularly hailed Tetfund for rising to the challenge of funding the universities saying that 19 projects cutting across academics and research are currently being undertaken by Tetfund in the university.
