Former Dean of Faculty of Management Sciences, University of Lagos (UNILAG), Professor Rasheed Kolawole Ojikutu has underscored the importance of the Master of Business Administration (MBA) programme in shaping the minds of future business leaders and entrepreneurs.
Prof Ojikutu who is the current Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Lagos State University of Science and Technology (LASUSTECH), stated this on Saturday, February 24, 2023, at the UNILAG-MBA Fresher’s Orientation Programme held at the Yaba Campus of the University.
The occasion offered an opportunity for the new MBA intakes to be provided with vital information as they begin their postgraduate academic journey. Present at the event were the Dean, School of Postgraduate Studies, Professor Abraham Osinubi; Dean, Faculty of Management Sciences, Professor Adeola Sulaiman; Rep University Librarian, Dr. Rachel Odunlade; Coordinator, Master of Business Administration (MBA) programme, Dr. Abbass, Deputy Registrar and Administrative Head of the programme, Mrs. Nonyem Oguama among others.
While delivering the Lecture titled, “The University of Lagos MBA Programme: The Journey So Far”, acknowledged the immense value derivable from the UNILAGMBA programme, noting that “those who have entered its domain in search of knowledge have been better for it”.
Professor Ojikutu who had in the past served as Coordinator of the UNILAG MBA programme, highlighted the programme’s evolution, challenges and milestones achieved over the years. He pointed out that “the university continues to adapt to changing trends in business education while maintaining its commitment to academic excellence”.
His words “The University of Lagos MBA program has a rich history that dates back to its inception. Established with the aim of providing high-quality business education, the program has evolved over the years to meet the changing demands of the business world. From its early days to its current standing as a prestigious programme for business education, the MBA program at the University of Lagos has consistently strived for excellence”.
The renowned Professor of Statistics urged the students to strive for academic excellence and make use of the vast resources available at their disposal within the university. He emphasized that a strong foundation in business theory and practice would be crucial in their future endeavour.
Earlier, the Dean, School of Postgraduate Studies admonished the students to embrace their studies with dedication. He advised them to take advantage of opportunities available in the University to hone their skills in areas such as critical thinking, interpersonal communication, emotional intelligence (EI), strategic planning, conflict resolution and so much more. While he elaborated on the role of social media, he decried its misuse by some students.
In his words “I am always perturbed whenever I see issues within the institution taken out of the confines of the university on social media. I am of the opinion that such an attitude is not healthy. When you tell it wrongly, no one will tell it better and invariably you devalue the legacy and pride of your institution”.
He stressed that the significance of negotiation, and the adoption of dialogue as a proper mechanism to press home demands whenever the need arises.
On his part, Dean, Faculty of Management Science, Professor Adeola Sulaiman welcomed the new students. He emphasized the university’s commitment to providing quality education and fostering a conducive learning environment for the students.
Similarly, the University Librarian representative, Dr. (Mrs) Odunlade provided the new intakes with information on key areas relating to the operations and use of the library while the Coordinator of the MBA Programme, Dr. Abbas spoke on issues relating to the programmes including Deferment, Leave of Absence, Extension, among others. Dr. Abbas explained that the MBA programme is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in today’s competitive business environment.
The event witnessed an interactive session, with the students asking various questions on areas related to their sojourn on campus.
Report: Bayo Salau
Photographs: Islamiat Akanni
