The Vice Chancellor of Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago Iwoye, Prof Ayodeji Agboola, on Tuesday called on the 381 engineering graduates of the university to prioritise integrity, embrace innovation and join forces with their older professional colleagues to be architects of a new Nigeria.
Prof. Agboola said that the pivotal role engineering plays in shaping the future of any nation cannot be overstated, and, as such, budding engineers must be ready to roll up their sleeves and demonstrate dedication to deploying their skills and competencies to help build stronger infrastructure in the country.
The Vice Chancellor made this call during the 11th induction of the 381 engineering graduates of the university into the Nigerian Society of Engineers and the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria held at the university’s College of Engineering, Ibogun in Ifo Local Government area of Ogun State
Agboola described engineering as the backbone of every sector, from infrastructure development and technological advancement to healthcare and beyond.
He explained that “Nigeria is at a critical juncture in its development, and as engineers, you are poised to be the architects of this new era’
The VC said that the decision of the graduate engineers to be inducted into NSE and COREN is more than just a formal procedure, but “an affirmation of commitment to uphold the highest standards of ethics, professionalism, and technical excellence in practice”.
While charging the graduates, Agboola said, “You are not just members of an institution; you are custodians of the future, and your responsibilities go beyond merely solving problems – you are to innovate, inspire, and transform the world around you.
“Today is a day of celebration, but it is also a day of reflection. The path to becoming a licensed engineer is one of continuous learning and growth. This journey will demand resilience, creativity, and, most importantly, a strong commitment to lifelong development.
“As you step into the next phase of your career, remember that the road ahead will present both challenges and opportunities. It is how you respond to these challenges that will define your success and your impact on society.”
The Vice Chancellor, therefore, urged all newly inducted pupil engineers to remain focused and diligent, and to continually strive to improve themselves, as engineering is a profession that thrives on continuous improvement.
He stated, “The world is full of opportunities waiting to be unlocked by your talent, innovation, and drive. Maximise your potential, and use your expertise to make lasting contributions to our society and the world”.
The Vice Chancellor hailed COREN and NSE for their unwavering commitment and for providing guidance and leadership that is helping to strengthen excellence in engineering, urging them not to rest on their laurels.
Agboola thanked parents, families, and lecturers for supporting the graduands in achieving this career milestone.
Speaking earlier, the Dean, Faculty of Engineering, OOU, Ibogun campus, Prof Olufunke Akinkurolere, lauded the university management under the Vice Chancellor for its strong support and approval of the construction of a 750-seater lecture theatre for the faculty.
Prof Akinkurolere said that this landmark intervention will significantly enhance the teaching and learning environment, accommodate the growing student population, and further strengthen the faculty’s capacity to produce high-quality engineering graduates for national development
The Dean particularly hailed Prof Agboola for the confidence reposed in the faculty by allowing one of his biological children, who was among the newly inducted engineers, to be enrolled in the faculty.
While rejoicing with the graduands, Pfof Akinkurolere, however, urged them to see their induction into NSE and COREN as a great responsibility that they can never afford to betray.
She explained, “You are being formally admitted into a noble profession that demands competence, discipline, innovation, and ethical conduct.
“The knowledge you have acquired here is only the foundation; the real learning begins now as you step into the professional world.
“Always remember that society looks up to engineers to provide solutions; solutions that improve infrastructure, drive technological development, protect the environment, and enhance the quality of life,
“I encourage you to remain committed to continuous professional development, to embrace teamwork, and to uphold the ethical standards of NSE and COREN at all times.
“Let integrity guide your decisions, let excellence define your work, and let service to humanity remain the central purpose of your profession.
“Nigeria, and indeed the world, needs engineers who are not only technically sound but also visionary, innovative, and dependable.”
Ademola Olorunfemi, the keynote speaker at the event, urged engineering graduates to prioritise integrity and strong character, emphasising that their top academic grades may open doors, but they are insufficient to keep them in the job.
Speaking on “Beyond Degree: Building A Sustainable Career in Engineering”, Olorunfemi, a past national president of NSE, urged the newly inducted engineers to be teachable and adaptable, while also leveraging on technology, even as they continue to acquire relevant skills to sharpen their competencies and carve a niche for themselves.
The National President of NSE, Ali Rabiu, represented by Seyi Odunuga, Chairman NSE, Mowe branch, alongside Dr Abayomi Layeni, NSE branch chairman, Ilaro, thereafter performed the induction of the graduands into the NSE.
Similarly, Prof. Sadiq Abubakar, COREN President, represented by Dr. Folasade Adebayo, COREN board member for the South-West, conducted the induction of the engineering graduates into the regulatory body.
A total of 5,808 graduates were conferred degrees at the university’s 35th convocation, held recently on the campus in Ago Iwoye.
A total of 147 of the graduands earned First Class, 2,051 were in the Second Class Upper Division, 2,927 in the Second Class Lower Division, 571 had Third Class Degree, 26 had a Pass Grade, while 86 were unclassified, being graduates from the medical programme.
Prof Agboola said that the university, which is ranked 16th among 321 universities in the country, has continued to sustained its 100% accreditation of its courses and also added nine new programmes, comprising seven undergraduate and two postgraduate.
The Vice Chancellor also announced the appointment of three Professors Emeritus for the university, and they are Prof Adewale Sule-Odu, a Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Prof Adetola Olatunji, former Provost, Obafemi Awolowo College of Health Sciences, OOU and a notable columnist with The Punch newspapers and a Professor of Economics, Sheriffdeen Tella.
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