May 20, 2024
Thomas Adewumi University Auditorium
The third-anniversary lecture at Thomas Adewumi University (TAU) featured a captivating Anniversary lecture presentation by Prof. Mahfouz Adedimeji. The event, held at the University East Campus Auditorium, celebrated TAU’s remarkable progress and vision for the future.
Miss Hope Okedele delivered Prof. Adedimeji's citation, highlighting his illustrious career. A native of Iwo in Osun State, Prof. Adedimeji is a renowned Nigerian linguist, communication scholar, and public intellectual. He served as the pioneer Vice-Chancellor of Ahman Pategi University from 2021 to 2024 and has a diverse academic background in socio-linguistics, pragmatics, applied English, and peace linguistics. Prof. Adedimeji has authored over 12 books, contributed to more than 40 books, and published numerous academic articles. His works have been recognized both nationally and internationally, making him a highly respected figure in his field.
Taking the stage, Prof. Adedimeji presented “Small Steps, Giant Strides: Unleashing the Power of Incremental Progress.” He began by expressing his honor to speak at TAU’s third anniversary, congratulating all stakeholders and commending the Vice-Chancellor for her leadership. He praised TAU’s rapid ascent since its humble beginnings, noting its status as the top university among those licensed in 2021 and its recognition as one of Nigeria’s best universities.
Prof. Adedimeji highlighted the significant progress TAU has made in just three years, attributing this success to a clear vision, mission, and passion for excellence epitomized by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Francisca Oladipo. He commended the Founder/Chancellor, the Board of Trustees, the Governing Council, and the management team for their unwavering dedication to the University's growth and excellence. He even suggested that TAU's achievements should be recognized by the Guinness Book of Records.
In his insightful lecture, Prof. Adedimeji outlined the “Ten P’s” that have propelled TAU to stardom:
- Publicity
- Personnel
- Policies
- Proper Funding
- Power & Technology
- Partnerships
- Programmes
- Publications
- Physical Infrastructure
- Planning
He also discussed TAU's incremental progress towards world-class status, emphasizing its national and international rankings, expansion, partnerships, research, and academic excellence.
To inspire the audience further, Prof. Adedimeji shared ten Japanese secrets to excellence:
- Ikigai: Know your purpose.
- Shikita ga nai: Let go of what you cannot change.
- Wabi-sabi: Find peace in imperfection.
- Gaman: Preserve your dignity during tough times.
- Oubaitori: Do not compare yourself to others.
- Kaizen: Always seek to improve.
- Shinrin-Yoku: Be close to nature and enjoy peace of mind.
- Hara Hachi Bu: Eat until you are 80% full.
- Shoshin: Approach tasks with a beginner's mindset.
- Kakeibo: Make a budget and stick to it.
Following his inspiring presentation, the Pro-Chancellor, Prof. Victor Olanrewaju, presented Prof. Adedimeji with an appreciation award, marking a memorable conclusion to the event.
Thomas Adewumi University continues to celebrate its milestones with a commitment to academic excellence and societal impact, looking forward to a future filled with growth and achievements.
