Daud Olatunji
The Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED), Ijagun, Ogun State, is set to make history at its 16th convocation ceremony by graduating 27 First-Class students and its first-ever 67 PhD holders, including an 85-year-old retired military colonel, Pa Bolaji Onafowokan, renowned for his determination and perseverance.
Speaking at a pre-convocation press briefing on Friday, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Wole Banjo, highlighted the institution’s milestones, which include graduating 4,140 students, commissioning a groundbreaking 800 KVA independent power plant, and honoring four prominent Nigerians for their significant contributions to education and the nation.
“This year’s convocation is unique as it marks the graduation of our first PhD recipients. Among them is 85-year-old Colonel Bolaji Onafowokan, who exemplifies resilience and lifelong learning.
“It’s an achievement that inspires not only our students but also the nation,” Banjo said.
He added that out of the 4,140 graduating students, 401 are postgraduate students, with 67 earning PhDs, 27 receiving Master’s Degrees, and 55 obtaining Postgraduate Diplomas.
The VC said the remaining include Bachelor’s Degree graduates, of which 27 achieved First-Class honours.
Prof. Banjo announced that Governor Dapo Abiodun will commission several projects during the convocation, including a state-of-the-art health center, science laboratories complex, and the much-anticipated independent power plant.
“For over six years, TASUED has struggled with erratic power supply, relying on diesel-powered generators at a cost of N18 to N20 million monthly.
This new power plant, built at a total cost of N30 million inclusive of taxes, will provide the campus with 24/7 electricity, significantly reducing expenses and enhancing academic activities,” he explained.
The VC disclosed that four distinguished individuals will receive honorary awards for their immense contributions to TASUED and Nigeria:
He said Dr. Afolabi Taiwo, the CEO of Sifax group was considered for his contributions including his promise to build an iconic edifice for the university.
The VC added that Prince Oluyemisi Shylon, an art enthusiast, was chosen for pledging a rare monument for the campus.
He also said that Otunba Wasiu Jaiyeola, was among the Honourees for his committment to equipping the university’s vocational center with vital machines.
Prof. Banjo told newsmen that Engr. Jubil Dotun Sanusi, owner of Ilaji Resort, was selected for his contributions including donation of a Senior Staff Club nearing completion.
“These honorees have gone above and beyond in supporting our institution, and we are proud to recognize their efforts during this momentous occasion,” Banjo said.
The VC said TASUED has also achieved significant strides in research and development.
According to him, the Institute of Vocational Training and Research in Agriculture recently partnered with the Federal Government to establish an agro-processing factory, contributing to Nigeria’s food security initiatives.
He also added that collaborations with organisations like the Teachers Registration Council ensure that graduates are certified professionals upon completion of their programmes.
In addressing security concerns, Prof. Banjo praised the Ogun State Government and law enforcement agencies for enhancing safety on campus through the resuscitation of the Abapawa Police Post and deployment of special patrol teams.
Banjo, whose tenure as the 5th substantive Vice-Chancellor of TASUED concludes with this year’s convocation, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead the institution.
“I feel fulfilled having delivered on my promises. This valedictory convocation is a culmination of our efforts to transform TASUED into a globally competitive institution. I trust that my successor will build on this solid foundation,” he said.
The convocation lecture, themed “From Classroom to Cloud: Leveraging Digital Literacy for National Development,” will be delivered by the Minister of Communication, Innovations, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani.
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