The School of Postgraduate Studies (SPGS), University of Lagos (UNILAG) has held its first Annual Board Members Retreat, a memorable event that blended insightful discussions with moments of celebration and recognition.
Held on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, at the Arthur Mbanefo Digital Resource Centre (AMDRC), UNILAG, the occasion provided invaluable opportunity for Board members to reflect on the future of postgraduate education while recognizing those who have made outstanding contributions to the success of the graduate level education at UNILAG.
Centred on the theme, ” Transforming Postgraduate Education: Harnessing the Power of Case Studies for Impactful Teaching and Learning”, the event began with a thought-provoking session facilitated by the SPGS Sub-Dean, Dr. Adegboyega B. Ehinmowo.
His presentation, titled Transforming the Student Journey through Excellent Student Experience: Elevating Engagement from Application to Alumni Success, illuminated key challenges within postgraduate education and emphasised the need for enhanced students engagement throughout their academic journey. Dr. Ehinmowo’s session provided a springboard for the day’s discussions on ways the postgraduate school could improve its processes to better support students and foster a conducive learning environment.
The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Folasade T. Ogunsola, OON, FAS, thereafter addressed the Board, building on the issues raised by Dr. Ehinmowo. In a candid manner, she encouraged the Board members to maintain high standards and professionalism, reminding them that the success of the postgraduate school directly impacts the university’s overall reputation.
The Dean of SPGS, Professor Abraham A. A. Osinubi, also delivered a significant session on Introduction, Overview, and Framework for Case-Based Learning , providing valuable perspectives on integrating case studies into the postgraduate curriculum. His follow-up session on Breaking Barriers to Learning: Overcoming Non-Facilitating Classroom Behaviours for Effective Teaching , explored strategies for overcoming barriers to effective learning environments.
Director of the DBA programme at UNILAG Business School (ULBS), Dr. Simeon Ifere, further contributed to the session with his presentation on Bringing Learning to Life: Practical Strategies for Conducting Engaging Case Study-Based Classes. He offered actionable insights on ways to engage students, and ensure impactful case-based learning.
The retreat culminated in an elegant evening of celebration, where Board members were recognized for their hard work and dedication. The dinner featured a live band and special awards that highlighted the exceptional contributions of individuals to the postgraduate programme IN UNILAG.
Professor Kemi Abiodun Odukoya, a member of the University Governing Council was among the honorees. She was awarded for her exemplary leadership role as a mentor in postgraduate education, while Professor Gregory O. Simire received the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award for his long-standing commitment and innovative approach to postgraduate education.
Professor Bola Dixon-Ogbeche was celebrated as the Most Productive Postgraduate Supervisor in the last academic session and Dr. Jonathan Ekpudu was recognized for his significant role as Postgraduate Coordinator, as the Faculty of Management Sciences produced the highest number of Ph.D. graduates across the University during the academic session under review. They also received a reward of Two Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira. (N250, 000) from the SPGS Postgraduate Board.
Speaking on behalf of all the awardees, Professor Odukoya responded with heartfelt gratitude, acknowledging the collective efforts of the SPGS Board and faculty in enhancing the postgraduate experience of students. She dedicated her award to women who continue to hold their own while impacting lives in positive ways.
The retreat was a resounding success, combining intellectual rigour with a sense of appreciation and community. It served as a reminder of the profound impact that transformative postgraduate education could have in shaping the future of students, faculty, and the society at large.
Report: Bayo Salau
Photographs: Micheal Joshua
Here are some images from the Dinner and Awards below:
