Daud Olatunji
The Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED), Nigeria’s first university of education, marked its 20th anniversary with a special Senate session that reflected on its legacy, celebrated its milestones, and envisioned a transformative future.
Held at the university’s main auditorium, the historic event commenced at exactly 11:13 a.m. with the rendition of the Nigerian national anthem, followed by the Ogun State anthem, and the university anthem performed by students from the Department of French.
The Registrar of the institution, Dr. Dapo Oke, officially welcomed the dignitaries, members of the Senate, and the university community to the gathering.
This special Senate session brought together key figures in TASUED’s history, including its past Vice-Chancellors, founding administrators, and notable government representatives.
… TASUED Honours Pioneer VC
The TASUED conferred its first-ever Professor Emeritus title on its pioneer Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Oyekanmi Olukayode Oyesiku, in recognition of his trailblazing role in shaping the institution’s legacy.
This historic recognition was announced by the university’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Oluwole S. Banjo, during a special Senate session commemorating TASUED’s 20th anniversary.
The event served as a moment of reflection on TASUED’s remarkable journey, achievements, and aspirations for the future.
Banjo, in his speech, described Oyesiku’s appointment as Professor Emeritus as a well-deserved honour for a leader who laid a strong academic foundation for Nigeria’s first specialized university of education.
“As he was the first Vice-Chancellor, he is also the first individual to be honoured with the prestigious title of Professor Emeritus in our university.
“He has no doubt paid his dues in the academic world and through his pioneering role in leading this academic community,” Banjo stated.
The Vice-Chancellor lauded Oyesiku’s visionary leadership in setting TASUED on a path of academic distinction, emphasizing that the university’s success today is rooted in the dedication of its founding leaders, faculty, and students.
… Legacy Of Excellence And Transformation
Reflecting on two decades of academic strides, Banjo highlighted TASUED’s transformation into a globally recognized institution, producing graduates who are now leaders, innovators, and change-makers across various fields.
He reaffirmed the university’s commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and service, pledging continued investment in faculty, research, and infrastructure to ensure that TASUED remains a beacon of educational progress.
“TASUED is still a work in progress, but we are grateful for a system that is working well to surmount challenges,” he noted, adding that future efforts would focus on strengthening research, expanding community engagement, and deepening global collaborations.
… Honouring Past Leaders, Charting The Future
Banjo paid tribute to former university administrators, faculty members, and staff—both living and deceased—who contributed immensely to TASUED’s growth.
He also expressed gratitude to the university’s past and present governing councils for their unwavering support in sustaining the institution’s vision.
“As we celebrate our 20th anniversary, let us reaffirm our commitment to the core values that have guided us throughout our journey: academic excellence, integrity, innovation, and service.”
At the heart of the commemoration was the recognition of TASUED’s remarkable journey, from its establishment in 2005 by the former Governor of Ogun State, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, to becoming a globally recognized center of excellence.
Daniel, represented by Dr. Tunde Amore, recalled how he not only signed the enabling law for TASUED but personally secured its certificate of recognition from the National Universities Commission (NUC) in Abuja.
He expressed immense pride in TASUED’s evolution, stating, “I am one of the happiest men on earth with this milestone achieved.”
The university’s past Vice-Chancellors took turns to share their experiences, highlighting the institution’s resilience and growth despite challenges.
Honouring Pioneer: Professor Oyesiku’s Historic Recognition
One of the high points of the ceremony was the conferment of the title of Professor Emeritus on the pioneer Vice-Chancellor, Professor Oyesiku.
The university’s orator, Kemi Oriola, delivered an abridged citation detailing Oyesiku’s immense contributions, including his role in establishing TASUED’s e-learning center, digitalization of academic processes, campus landscaping, and securing a N128 billion grant.
Overcome with emotion, Oyesiku remarked, “I feel like smiling and crying at the same time. TASUED is first among equals, and I predict that in the next 20, 30, or even 80 years, it will remain a beacon of excellence.
The pioneer Vice-Chancellor, Professor Olukayode Oyekanmi Oyesiku, who was also honoured as TASUED’s first Professor Emeritus, reflected on his tenure.
“Fifteen years ago, I left the university, but seeing what it has become today is a dream fulfilled,” he said, overwhelmed with emotion.
Professor Segun Awonusi, the second Vice-Chancellor, joined virtually and praised the courage of TASUED’s founding fathers, particularly Gbenga Daniel.
He recounted how political interference once threatened the university’s existence, referencing former Governor Ibikunle Amosun’s attempt to scrap TASUED.
“The people rallied and resisted the move. It was a political vendetta, but thanks to the intervention of the Awujale of Ijebuland, the university was saved,” he revealed.
Professor Oluwayemisi Obilade, the only female Vice-Chancellor in TASUED’s history, expressed joy over the institution’s academic excellence. “TASUED has come to stay. I see our graduates excelling abroad on scholarships, and that makes me proud,” she said.
Professor Abayomi Arigbabu, the fourth Vice-Chancellor and now Ogun State Commissioner for Education, highlighted TASUED’s global ranking, emphasizing that it is the first of its kind in Nigeria, second in Africa, and eighth in the world.
He commended past and present administrators for sustaining the university’s vision.
… Union Urges Staff Development
The Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities,TASUED branch in its goodwill message presented by its Branch Chairman, Comrade Kehinde Akeem Adebayo, congratulated the university community on two decades of academic excellence, innovative research, and service to society.
The message highlighted the university’s reputation as Nigeria’s leading institution of education and acknowledged its contributions to national and global knowledge.
However, the union urged the management to address outstanding conditions affecting staff, particularly the implementation of the Senior Deputy Registrar position, which has already been approved by the Governing Council.
The union emphasized that while the anniversary is a time for celebration, it should also serve as a moment of reflection for the institution to improve the welfare and career growth of its workforce.
“These two decades have been years of dedication, innovation, and impactful contributions to mankind. As we celebrate this remarkable achievement, we implore the management to fulfill the remaining conditions that will enhance staff progression, especially for non-teaching staff,” the statement read.
The university management is yet to respond to the union’s appeal, but stakeholders expect that staff development will be a key focus in the next phase of the institution’s growth.
… Senate Resolutions And Call For Renewed Commitment
The Senate session concluded with the adoption of key resolutions recognizing TASUED’s impact on education and employment in Nigeria.
It was acknowledged that while the university had faced existential challenges, its resilience had turned it into a model for other education-focused universities.
The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Oluwole Banjo, who presided over the session, lauded the contributions of past and present governing councils, alumni, and the host community. “This anniversary is not just a celebration but a moment of reflection.
The next 20 years will be even more transformative if we all recommit to TASUED’s progress,” he stated.
The session ended at exactly 1:45 p.m. with the cutting of the anniversary cake, led by the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Professor Roland Solarin.
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