Prof. Falola and Prof. Egbewole
..as Professor Falola urges Africans to stick to their values, belief systems
Vice Chancellor of University of Ilorin, Professor Wahab Olasupo Egbewole has called on the graduating students of the institution to be agents of positive change and think without a box in order to find a lasting solution to the lingering world’s problems ranging from climate change to social inequality.
Professor Egbewole made the call today (Friday 20, 2023) in his address during the 37th and 38th convocation ceremonies for the awarding of degrees/diplomas to over 13,000 students for 2020/2021 set.
“The world is facing significant challenges, from climate change to social inequality, and it is up to you to be the agents of change.
“I challenge you to think critically, think without a box, be open-minded, and collaborate with others to find solutions to these complex issues. Your education at the University of Ilorin has prepared you for this, and I have no doubt that you will rise to the challenges.
“You are part of a generation that has the power to shape the future and make a positive impact on society. You have been equipped with the knowledge, skills and values necessary to navigate the complexities of the world and create positive change” the VC added.
According to him, “as we celebrate your achievements, I want to remind you that this is not just an end, but the beginning of a new chapter in your lives”.
Professor Egbewole however appealed to the federal government as a matter of urgency to rescue the nation’s education sector from the current brain drain that hit the system, stressing that the ugly development has continued to affect the growth of University education and other tertiary institutions in the country.
“Our institutions need more hands to deliver on its mandates and funds for serious academic works, researches and collaborations for desired outputs.
“I urge the government at all levels that a state of emergency be declared to rescue the system”.
He therefore assured President Bola Ahmed Tinube that they would not rest on their oars for advancement of the nation through cutting-edge researches aimed at moving the country to an enviable image.
Earlier, the convocation lecturer and Professor of History at the department of History, University of Texas, Austin, United States of America, Professor Toyin Falola urged members of the society not to allow new innovation and technology to change their values.
The lecturer who spoke on the theme, “Modernity, Modernisation and Values” said that, the society are now polluted with various beliefs and actions but this must not change their values so as to protect the society.
He called on the people of Africa to continue to promote and encourage actions and inactions that will move the continent to an enviable standard.
Ends
