Oko-Irese, Kwara State, Nigeria
December 07, 2023
In a historic event that unfolded yesterday at the esteemed Thomas Adewumi University Auditorium, the institution hosted its inaugural Distinguished Public Lecture, drawing together a constellation of distinguished guests, academic luminaries, and dignitaries. The event marked a significant milestone in the University's commitment to fostering intellectual discourse and contributing to the academic development of the region.
The auditorium was graced with the presence of notable figures, including the Founder of the University, the Pro-Chancellor, Vice-Chancellors from sister institutions, notably the KU8+ Consortium of Universities in Kwara State, Royal Fathers, the Guest Speaker, Professor Yusuf Olaolu Ali, SAN, FCIArb, and various other esteemed dignitaries.
The proceedings commenced with the formal introduction of the prominent guests, the University Scholars, the Founder/ Chancellor of the University, Engr. Dr. J.B.O Adewumi, whose visionary leadership has been instrumental in the establishment and growth of the institution, was warmly welcomed. The Co-Founder, Dr. Mrs. G.O Adewumi, the Pro-Chancellor/ Chairman of the Governing Council, Professor Victor Olanrewaju, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Francisca Oladipo, the University Management team, and other Vice-Chancellors from sister institutions, added an extra layer of academic prestige to the event. The Royal Fathers, and the Mogaji of Ilorin in attendance added a touch of cultural richness to the occasion.
The formalities of the event began with a series of addresses, starting with the welcome address by the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Francisca O. Oladipo. The Pro-Chancellor, then took the stage to share insights into the University's journey, achievements, and aspirations. The Founder/Chancellor of the institution followed suit, reflecting on the milestones achieved and emphasizing the University's commitment to academic excellence.
A pivotal moment in the programme unfolded when the Vice-Chancellor introduced the Guest Speaker, Prof. Yusuf Olaolu Ali, SAN, a distinguished figure in legal and academic circles, the principal and founder of Yusuf O. Ali &Co. Ghalib Chambers. Prof. Ali's citation was presented by the Vice-Chancellor before he took center stage. His presentation, titled "Decolonizing African Education to Empower the Next Generation," captivated the audience, offering thought-provoking insights into the transformative potential of reevaluating educational paradigms. In recognition of Mallam Ali's contribution, the Chancellor presented him with a plaque, symbolizing the University's appreciation for his enlightening discourse, and for setting the stage for the future to come. The Vice-Chancellor also conferred an award upon the Guest Speaker, acknowledging his invaluable contribution, landmark, and achievement to the academic community.
The event reached its crescendo with heartfelt goodwill messages from the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, and the Chairman of the KU8+; the Consortium of Universities in Kwara State, Prof. Wahab Egbewole, SAN, His Royal Majesty, Oba Abdulraheem Oladele Adeoti, the Olomu of Omu-Aran, and the Deputy Rector of Kwara State Polytechnic, Dr. Felicia Awolola. Each message underscored the importance of collaborative efforts in advancing education and emphasized the significance of events such as the Distinguished Public Lecture in fostering knowledge exchange. The culmination of the event came with the Royal Thanksgiving delivered by the Royal Father of the Day, His Royal Majesty, Oba Victor Olufemi Olawuyi, the Oloko of Oko Irese, expressing gratitude to all dignitaries, academic luminaries, distinguished guests, and attendees. The Oloko highlighted the positive impact such events have on the local community and the broader educational landscape.
The Thomas Adewumi University's First Distinguished Public Lecture will undoubtedly be remembered as a landmark occasion, a testament to the institution's commitment to intellectual exploration, collaboration, and the pursuit of knowledge.
