KEHINDE OYEWOLE, Owo
It was undoubtedly a happy day at Achievers University, Owo, as it graduates 434 students of 2021 set in grand style.
The 11th convocation commenced as scholars and graduands of the graduating set were all adorned in their academic ceremonial robes and attires as they take the final procession to become a graduate from the great citadel of learning.
The ceremony was graced by important dignitaries and royalties across the country, including the former vice president of Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar who delivered the 11th convocation lecture on Friday, 10th December 2021.
The vice-chancellor of the institution, Professor Samuel Olabanji Aje, in his address congratulated the graduating set and the parents who had relentlessly supported their wards through the financial and emotional hurdles of the school for a job well done.
He said, “On behalf of the governing council, senate, and the entire university community, I heartily congratulate all graduands. Having been found worthy in character and in learning, I enjoin you to be guided at all times with the unshakeable tripod of Knowledge, Integrity, and Leadership – which is the bedrock of all ‘Achievers.’”
The VC also announced that the governing council of the university has approved 50% discount tuition fees for its engineering courses.
He disclosed that 280 students were currently enjoying the tuition-free programmes which are available in 10 programmes including human physiology and human anatomy.
He said the 280 beneficiaries would not pay any fees for the first three years but would be made to pay fees in the fourth year saying “Achievers University did not really focus on money but to impart knowledge and encourage learning.”
The pro-chancellor and chairman of the council of the university, Dr Bode Ayorinde, disclosed that the focus is on delivering on projects like the college of medicine, education and aviation.
He stated that the student population in the institution has increased to 3000 because of the trust parents have in the school’s management.
Ms Oluwatosin Oreofejesu Adeoye, the overall best graduating student, who was the cynosure of all eyes at the event, delivered the valedictory speech titled “A Trumpet of Glory and Appreciation” on behalf of the graduating set.
In her speech, she appreciated the excellent tutelage and mentorship the university had given to her and the graduating set in general. She maintained that it was through the thorough leaders’ instinct and the concerted effort of all members of the university that the graduating students could attain the feat of becoming graduates.
“…I appreciate the kind gesture of the pro-chancellor, the governing council, our distinguished vice-chancellor, and our distinguished lecturers of different departments…”, she said.
Ms Adeoye left the university with a sum of N185,000 she got from four awards and prizes as she graduated with the highest CGPA of 4.70.
She won the chancellor’s, college, and departmental prizes respectively.
The university went ahead to confer honorary doctorate degrees on prominent Nigerians including former vice president of the country, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar; Chief Adeniji Olateju Badejoko and the Emeritus Oyo State Judge, Justice Abdulraheem Sule.
Speaking after the conferment, Mr Atiku commended the vision of the founder of the university, Dr Bode Ayorinde.
“I commend Achievers University and its determined and focused Founder, Bode Ayorinde.”
“When I lived and worked in this part of the country, I realized that the Ondo was the centre of education in the South West. Thankfully, this university will help to maintain that reputation while also benefitting people from other parts of the country.”
“Thank you, Bode Ayorinde for keeping the Ondo spirit and character alive. And thank you for providing this important educational alternative for these young men and women whose lives have certainly been transformed.”, the former vice president said.
The foundation of Atiku Abubakar Hall of Residence at the university was laid by Mr Atiku.
