By Saheed Ibrahim

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The Governor of Ondo State and Visitor to Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, has praised the resourcefulness and substantial contributions of the institution to the state and beyond. 

Akeredolu, who expressed pride in AAUA being consistently rated the Best State University in Nigeria within the past four years, also recognised the university’s role in staff training and skilled personnel development.

The Governor, represented by the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Pastor Femi Agagu, while addressing the university’s 12th Convocation, highlighted AAUA’s integral connection to the growth and development of the state and the nation.

The Convocation also celebrated the diverse accomplishments of students across various faculties.

Of the 5,249 graduands, 42 graduated first class, 1,088 received second class upper division degrees, 2,264 received second class lower division, and 605 got third class.

The Visitor explained that countless civil and public sector workers, both within and outside the government, have benefitted from the rich education offered by the institution, adding that AAUA has become intricately interwoven into the tapestry of growth and development within the state and the nation at large.

The Governor acknowledged AAUA’s vision to be a leading institution in research and applauded recent research endeavours by staff and students. 

While saying that the current era requires substantial scholarly contributions to navigate uncertain paths, Akeredolu stressed that state institutions, especially AAUA, must take the lead.

Akeredolu reaffirmed the government’s commitment to providing essential support and encouragement to state-owned institutions, empowering them to fulfil their founding vision and mission statements. 

While pledging more support, Governor Akeredolu appealed to philanthropists, stakeholders, and prosperous community members to collaborate with the government in expanding infrastructural growth within educational institutions across the state.  

In his address, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Dr. Tunji Abayomi, reiterated the steadfast dedication of the Council members to propel the institution toward more significant achievements.

“The Governing Council of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, remains unwavering in its commitment to advancing our achievements. Our strategic focus encompasses fostering a conducive learning environment, instilling strong character development, promoting entrepreneurial skills, and actively engaging in meaningful community service initiatives”, he added.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Olugbenga Ige, urged the graduands to make significant contributions to society, be ambassadors of excellence, integrity, and innovation, contribute to the institution’s growth and inspire future generations.

Ige reassured management and staff’s commitment to excellence through continuous staff training, re-invention of academic programmes, and establishing a broad research agenda. 

Overall Best Graduate, Abidemi Ojo, who graduated from the Department of Linguistics and Languages with a CGPA of 4.87, expressed gratitude to God for granting him the grace to attain the feat.