Why we are grateful to FG over Adeyemi Varsity – Osemawe

The Osemawe of Ondo Kingdom in Ondo State, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Dr. Victor Adesimbo Kiladejo Jilo III, has stated that his subjects would remain grateful to the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu- led federal government for bringing into reality, the elevation of Adeyemi College of Education to a University of Education.

The royal father made the statement while playing host to the newly appointed members of the institution’s Governing Council, led by the Chairman/ Pro-Chancellor of the University, Hon Yusuf, Adeola Ganiyat who paid him a courtesy visit on Tuesday August 13, 2024 in his palace in Ondo City.

Expressing delight over the visit, the first class traditional ruler congratulated members of the Governing Council, Management, and staff of the Institution for the achievement of the University status.

Going historically, Oba Kiladejo described the people of Ondo Kingdom as lovers of education, stating that the community demonstrated this attribute by being the first to established a community-owned secondary school, which was founded in the year 1919.

The traditional ruler further stated that Ondo Community has been enjoying God’s  mercy in terms of advancement in the area of education, following the establishment of three specialized tertiary institutions in the community, which he listed as including, the Adeyemi Federal University of Education, University of Medical Sciences and the Wesley University established by the Methodist Church Nigeria and a research and training institution, the National Institution for Education Planning and Administration (NIEPA)

The foremost traditional ruler, which urging staff and students of the University not to relent in ensuring that its mission, and vision is achieved, pledged to continue to support the institution in its developmental efforts.

Responding, the AFUED Pro-chancellor/Chairman Governing Council, Hon. Yusuf, Adeola Ganiyu, thanked the monarch for the reception and all assistance rendered to the University.

She explained that the courtesy visit to the palace by the Governing Council team, was meant to seek further support for the institution, and to give assurance of their readiness to partner with relevant stakeholders in taking the University to greater height through inclusivity and community engagements.

Earlier at a meeting held with staff of the University at the Prof. Babatunde Ipaye lecture theatre in the institution, the Pro-chancellor/Chairman of the Governing Council, Hon. Yusuf, Adeola Ganiyat, described the elevation of the then Adeyemi College of Education into a University of Education “as no small feat”, noting that the dream became a reality as “a result of the dedication and hard work of many individuals.”

She lauded the founding members and those currently in charge of administering the institution, as well as staff and students, for their commitment and passion toward its development.

Pledging commitment of her team to ensuring a strong and sustainable foundation for the University, Hon Yusuf Adeola Ganiyat, expressed optimism that their tenure, would add values to the institution, and meet aspirations of staff and students of the University.

She said: “Our vision for this University is ambitious yet achievable, we aim to be a leading centre of excellence in education, renowned for commitment to teaching, research, and community engagement”. She remarked.

The foremost educationist, however urged staff of the University not to relent in pursuit of excellence in service delivery, and academic advancement saying “as we move forward, I encourage you to continue to explore new methodologies, to engage in meaningful research and to inspire our students”.

In addition, the Pro-chancellor/Chairman AFUED Governing Council admonished students of the institution to avail themselves of opportunities available in the University to improve their lots, through active engagement in their educational pursuit, and working as agent of positive change.

The well attended meeting had in attendance all members of the newly appointed Governing Council including Pro-chancellor/ Chairman, Hon. Yusuf, Adeola Ganiyat; Four Government Appointees: Prof. Bashir Danlani Sarkindaji; Hon Adedapo Lam Adesina; Hon. (Mrs) Faika Moh’d Ahmed. and Chief (Hon.) Dr. Prince Nelson John.

Others were representative of the Federal Ministry of Education, Mrs. J. N Akpa; representatives of the congregation, Drs. Idown Oladosu Abimbola and A. O. Akinbobola, and Representative of the convocation, Mr. S.O. Awosika.

Also present were Principal Officers of the University which include the Acting Deputy Vice-chancellor (Administration), Dr. Samuel Akintunde; Chairman University Transition Committee, Dr. Abayomi Olajuyigbe; Acting Registrar, Mrs. Olufisayo Fakorede; Acting Bursar, Mrs. Taiwo Adedoyin and Acting Librarian, Dr. (Mrs) Afolabi, Adeola Fausat.

Other important personalities present on the occasion were National President COEASU, Dr. Smart Olugbeko; Sub Deans, Heads of Directorates, Divisions and Units, Chairpersons of workers union (COEASU, NASU and NACEATON), members of Teaching and Non-Teaching staff to mention but few.