418 Achieve First Class as 6,664 Graduate from University of Ibadan

The University of Ibadan celebrated its 2024 convocation with 6,664 graduates, including 418 First Class honorees, as the Vice-Chancellor and guest speakers encouraged them to impact society positively despite future challenges.

The University of Ibadan has celebrated the graduation of 6,664 students, with 418 earning First Class honors across 15 faculties, distance learning centers, and affiliated institutes at its 2024 convocation ceremony.

The university’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kayode Adebowale, addressed the graduates at the ceremony, urging them to make positive impacts with their skills, passion, and unique perspectives. He commended the graduates for their resilience, creativity, and perseverance, encouraging them to apply the knowledge and values they developed during their studies.

“With the strong foundation the University of Ibadan has provided, I have no doubt that you are ready to face the future with competence and courage,” Adebowale remarked. “Remember, your education is only the beginning, not the end.”

The vice-chancellor reminded the graduates that life would bring complexities and challenges, which often disguise valuable opportunities. He encouraged them to draw on their skills to innovate, lead, and pursue lifelong learning. Additionally, he emphasized the importance of staying connected within a global alumni network, which shares a commitment to excellence.

Prof. Adebowale acknowledged the university’s challenges, including funding shortages and inconsistent educational policies, which impact its mission. Despite these hurdles, he noted the institution’s continued dedication to producing globally competitive graduates.

He also highlighted the nationwide issue of limited access to university education, with federal and state universities providing over 95% of university placements. Adebowale called for consistent, harmonized educational policies and suggested that greater financial autonomy for public universities would support their growth and sustainability.

Delivering the convocation lecture, Mr. Kehinde Ogunwumiju, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and alumnus, encouraged the graduates to practice gratitude as a guiding principle. He shared how gratitude had enriched his own journey by building relationships and enabling him to achieve his goals.

“The world awaits your contributions, and the practice of gratitude will light your path, offering clarity and purpose,” Ogunwumiju advised.

The Valedictorian, Usman Oyekan, expressed appreciation to the university, as well as to parents and guardians, for their support, acknowledging the challenges faced along the way, including the impacts of COVID-19 and union strikes.

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SOURCES: ALLSCHOOL, NATION