“Higher institutions are the last bastion of meritocracy, and we must remain vigilant if we are to achieve our ambitious goals as a global center of excellence.”
Those were the powerful words of Vice-Chancellor, University of Lagos (UNILAG), Professor Folasade T. Ogunsola, OON, FAS, as she delivered the Opening Address at the two-day intensive training program for Deans and Heads of Departments (HoDs) of the University.
Organized by the Staff Training and Development Unit (STDU), the training which began on Tuesday, November 5, 2024 at the Academic Publishing Centre, UNILAG, is part of efforts aimed at enhancing leadership skills, providing clearer understanding of the University’s policies, as well as fostering academic performance and institutional success.
Speaking on the theme “Synergy for Success: Enhancing Institutional Excellence“, Professor Ogunsola emphasized the critical role of leadership in the University’s developmental agenda. She urged participants to focus on solutions, rather than complaints, stressing that “effective leaders are those who view challenges as opportunities for innovation”.
Her words “While it is easy to be discouraged by problems, effective leaders are those who see obstacles as stepping stones for innovation. Challenges are inevitable but not insurmountable. Instead of allowing pessimism to take root, you are called upon to model resilience, creativity, and a solution-oriented approach.”
The Vice-Chancellor further highlighted the pivotal role of Deans and HoDs in shaping the future of the institution. She emphasized the need for them to foster a culture of excellence and uphold the values of meritocracy in academic and research standards. According to her, “higher institutions like ours must continue to champion fairness and ensure the best academic and research outcomes”.
While underscoring the importance of effective governance within departments, innovative strategies for change management, and the crucial role of leadership in promoting student success, Professor Ogunsola explained that her vision for UNILAG is centered on its people, who are the most important component of the University. She added that the success of the institution depends on the commitment and capabilities of its leaders.
Following the Vice-Chancellor’s remarks, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and Research), Professor Bola Oboh, delivered an insightful lecture on the multifaceted responsibilities of Deans and Heads of Departments. She pointed out the importance of leadership that aligns with the Vice-Chancellor’s vision. She also encouraged collaborative efforts toward achieving institutional goals of UNILAG.
According to her “Deans and HoDs are not just administrators; you are mentors who inspire faculty members to reach their full potential, you play pivotal roles as leaders shaping the University’s academic future. It is essential that the goals of individual departments align with the broader objectives of the institution.”
Earlier, in her welcome remarks, Director of the Staff Training and Development Unit (STDU), Mrs. Aderonke Josephine Asiwaju, emphasized that the training formed part of a concerted effort to deepen understanding of administrative processes. She explained that “by empowering Deans and HoDs, the University of Lagos is taking a significant step towards ensuring that those in leadership positions within the institution are well-prepared to navigate the challenges of modern higher education”.
A central focus of the first-day of the training included ways to improve staff performance through effective management, as well as understanding the University’s policies on student academic matters such as deferment, leave of absence, and abscondment.
The issues around critical staff matters like the Annual Performance Evaluation Rating (APER) form were part of discussions during a question and answers session that afforded the academic leaders an opportunity to understand the tools to navigate challenges effectively while maintaining high standards of academic excellence.
Report: Bayo Salau
Photographs: Michael Joshua
