By Ayodele Abere
The Chancellor of Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology (BOUESTI), Ikere-Ekiti, Chief Wole Olanipekun, SAN, has appealed to Governor Biodun Oyebanji to redeem his pledge to furnish the university’s ultramodern Senate building and reconstruct more than five kilometres of internal campus roads.
Speaking on Saturday at the institution’s 2nd Convocation Ceremony in Ikere-Ekiti. Ekiti State, Olanipekun said the governor made the commitment nearly two years ago during the unveiling of the Senate building. He urged timely redemption of the promises to support the university’s growth.
While commending Oyebanji’s visionary leadership and steadfast commitment to the advancement of education,the Chancellor said continued government support was vital to consolidate the gains and position the university for greater heights of excellence and global relevance.
Olanipekun also called on stakeholders, corporate bodies, and well-meaning individuals to partner with BOUESTI, noting that education is a collective enterprise that thrives on the synergy of government, community, private sector, and individuals.
“Your contributions will not only sustain this institution but will also expand its frontiers, transforming our present needs into enduring legacy for generations to come,” he said.
Addressing the graduating students, the Chancellor described the degrees as sacred emblems of trust reposed in their intellect, in the discipline of their character, and in their proven capacity to deploy knowledge in service of society.
The Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Professor Dipo Aina, described convocation as a defining moment of harvest, reflection and renewed commitment.
He said BOUESTI has recorded significant and measurable progress across governance, academics, infrastructure and staff development, adding that the university has moved beyond aspiration.
“It is now an institution of demonstrated progress and growing impact,” said he.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Andrew Babatunde Omojola said BOUESTI students have continued to excel in entrepreneurial competitions, reflecting the institution’s drive to produce job creators and innovators.
However, he identified student accommodation as a major challenge, stating that limited on-campus hostels have forced most students to seek off-campus housing, where landlords impose exploitative rents. He appealed to the governor for urgent intervention to provide additional hostels.
Representing Governor Oyebanji, the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Abibat Adubiaro, said education remains the cornerstone of sustainable development, stressing that the state continues to invest in BOUESTI to produce skilled, innovative, and morally grounded graduates. She urged the graduands to be job creators, innovators and solution providers.
In her valedictory address, best graduating student Precious Adu said BOUESTI taught them more than academics. and urged her colleagues to be problem solvers.
Also speaking with journalists, House of Representatives aspirant Dr. Yemi Olayinka described education as second to none and advised the new graduates to embrace entrepreneurship, “the best way to go now.”
Highlight of the occasion well attended by dignitaries from all walks of life was gift presentation to the deserving graduates.
