The Vice-Chancellor, University of Ibadan, Prof. Kayode Adebowale, has hailed the implementation of educational reforms, infrastructures upgrade and as well provision of critical resources for schools in Ekiti State.
Adebowale hailed Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s leadership style for his contributions to the development of education, good governance, community welfare and national development.
The VC spoke in Ado Ekiti, the Ekiti State capital, on Tuesday while honouring Oyebanji with the prestigious UI @75 Ambassador award in recognition of his contributions to education growth.
He said, “The governor’s efforts have had a positive impact on the academic community, not just in Ekiti, but across the nation. This has impressed the management of the University, leading to his decoration as an ambassador.
“In less than two years as governor, Oyebanji has demonstrated capacity and redefined governance in the state through his inclusive governance approach which has mobilised elites, traditional institutions, artisans, women and youth for the development and progress of the state.”
Adebowale, who congratulated the governor on the recognition, expressed confidence that “The governor will continue to be a model, inspiring the next generation of leaders as well as continuing to represent UI well as an ambassador of the higher citadel of learning”.
Oyebanji, in his reaction, thanked the UI management and emphasised the importance of education as the key to unlocking the full potential of the nation’s youth.
The governor, who affirmed his administration’s continued support for policies aimed at boosting the quality of education, pledged to strengthen collaborations with institutions of higher learning, particularly the UI to enhance academic research, innovation and capacity building.
He said, “I am extremely grateful to the UI management and the chairman of the anniversary committee for counting Ekiti lucky to receive this award. I am also grateful to my wife who convinced me to accept this, because, this is the first award I will personally receive.
“My family has a long history with UI. I was just telling the VC that my father graduated from UI. I also had the privilege of doing my Masters in UI and my wife did her first degree there. I also convinced all my children to attend UI, so, we have that history with UI.
“I am also aware that to have been decorated as an ambassador of UI will impose great responsibility on me. I have listened deeply to your speech sir in terms of my conduct, character and performance, I promise you, God helping me, that I will not bring to disrepute, the reputation of the institution.
“I also know that the reward for hard work is more work and this will impose a lot of responsibility on me.”
-Punchng
