The School of Foundation Studies, University of Lagos, held a reception in honour of the 12th and outgoing Vice-Chancellor, Professor Oluwatoyin Ogundipe, FAS, on Thursday, October 27, 2022.
Director of the School, Professor Solomon Akinboye, was the first to give his tributes. He traced his relationship with the Vice-Chancellor back to the early 90’s when he joined the university as a Lecturer II.
“From that point, the professional and personal bond grew stronger; and it found expression in our roles and responsibilities to the University. We both emerged as Sub-Deans of our respective faculties and went on to become members of a group of scholars on campus that are fondly referred to as the “Critical Group. What we are doing today, in essence, is to celebrate a man of tremendous accomplishments”, he said.
The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics & Research), who also doubles as the Chairperson of the School of Foundation Board, Professor Bola Oboh, also had words of praise and appreciation for Professor Oluwatoyin Ogundipe, FAS.
In her words: “The man we are here to celebrate is a person of whom so much can be said. He is a committed academic who invested the whole of himself into his calling. As an administrator, his landmarks are very visible for all to see; and they are such that succeeding leaderships of the University of Lagos would leverage to take our institution to greater heights. He is a great man, indeed, and we only wish him greater heights in life”.
In his response, the Vice-Chancellor expressed his gratitude to the leadership and staff of the School of Foundation for the honour. He reiterated the statement earlier made by the Director of the School, Professor Akinboye, about growing up with fellow academics and accomplishing great things for the University together.
“Nothing gives more joy than to see the same faces you have known for years, when you were young and formative, still around you at a later date – all accomplished and doing great things. That is the beauty of the University community. Everyone knows everyone and there is nothing to hide”.
He commended members of Management, staff, students, and alumni of the University for their contribution to making the University of Lagos the toast of the nation.
“UNILAG is a global brand now, and everyone must contribute to keep the institution shining. It is now an institution that others from all over the world want to partner with. This gladdens my heart and I know it will continue long after my time in office. Peace has returned to our University now and nobody will ever be in a position to threaten it again.”, he said.
The Wife of the Vice-Chancellor, Mrs Oluwaseun Ogundipe; Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Management Services), Prof. Lucian Chukwu; Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Development Services), Prof. Ayodele Atsenuwa; Provost of the College of Medicine, Prof. David Oke; Registrar, Oladejo Azeez, Esq.; and the Director of Academic Planning, Prof. Mopelola Olusakin were all at the event.
