The National President of the University of Ilorin Alumni Association, Professor Abdulrazaq Kilani, has emphasized the transformative power of education and the responsibilities of alumni towards societal development.
Speaking during the Ogun State Chapter’s 2024 Annual General Meeting and the 2nd Taoreed Odedele Biennial Lecture, Kilani addressed key issues ranging from the value of education, rising concerns over “japa” (migration), the proliferation of First Class graduates, and controversies surrounding alumni leadership.
Kilani dispelled claims that education is a scam, stating, “Education liberates you, offers the best opportunities, and uplifts societal hierarchy.Anyone calling education a scam is simply ignorant.”
He urged Nigerians to embrace education as a pathway out of poverty and highlighted its role in fostering personal growth and community development.
Kilani emphasized the importance of ethical governance within alumni associations.
He condemned impersonation and called for strict adherence to constitutional provisions.
“Anyone acting against alumni ethics should face consequences. Ambassadors are recalled globally when they act improperly; the same should apply to alumni representatives,” he asserted.
The alumni leader expressed concern over the surge in First Class graduates, particularly from private universities, attributing it to better access to digital resources and modern teaching methodologies.
However, he noted that some institutions might exploit this trend for business purposes.
“In our time, access to educational materials was limited, but today, with a tap on your device, you can access a wealth of information,”Kilani said.
While acknowledging the brilliance of many students, he called on the National Universities Commission (NUC) to enforce stricter quality control.
“When 500 students graduate with First Class honors from a single institution, questions must be raised. Universities must ensure that these degrees truly reflect academic excellence.Anything less demarkets the institutions and harms their credibility,” he said.
Kilani reiterated the core purpose of alumni associations as networks for societal payback and development.
“What alumni do globally is about giving back to society,” he noted. “Society has invested in you; it’s your turn to recognize and support the society that molded you.”
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