By Emeka Oluka & Lydia Adebayo
The Orientation Programme for fresh students of the 2024/2025 Academic Session at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) commenced today, October 15, 2024, with key officials offering crucial guidance to the new intakes.
Addressing the fresh students, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Olukayode Akinyemi, welcomed the freshers to FUNAAB, emphasising the University’s dedication to developing well-rounded individuals.
The Vice-Chancellor urged the students to prioritise their studies and fully embrace campus life by focusing on academics, personal growth, networking, and exploring their passions. Prof. Kehinde also tasked them to cultivate critical thinking skills to tackle complex challenges and make informed decisions.
He further encouraged the students to build meaningful relationships with peers, mentors, and staff. “Build networks that will support your future endeavours. Your time here is a precious opportunity,” the Vice-Chancellor advised, urging them to make the most of it.
Speaking in his capacity as the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Akinyemi acknowledged that university life could be challenging and advised the students to develop coping strategies like seeking help when necessary and persevering through difficulties. He encouraged them to utilise the University’s resources, such as tutoring, mentorship, and counselling.
The Ag. Registrar, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Dawodu, who was represented by the Deputy Registrar II (Exams and Records), Mr. Adewale Ojoye, highlighted the University’s history, vision and mission, stressing the collective commitment required to maintain FUNAAB’s status as the Best University of Agriculture in Africa.
The Bursar, Mr. Olukayode Osinuga, represented by the former Ag. Bursar, Mrs. Oluremi Oyewunmi, addressed Bursary activities as they pertain to students, while the University Librarian, Prof. Abayomi Owolabi, provided insights into the ‘Nimbe Adedipe Library and its vast resources, encouraging students to take full advantage of its offerings.
The Dean, Student Affairs, Prof. Festus Adeosun, advised the new students to engage in innovative activities, charging them to explore approved clubs and societies, as well as participate in sports to enrich their campus experience.
In his speech, the President of the Student Union, Com. Ibraheem Adeyemi, encouraged students to engage in intellectual and literary activities for personal growth, while the Assistant Chief Environmental Officer (ACEO), Mr. Peter Bolarinwa, stressed the importance of security awareness and vigilance on campus, urging the freshers to adhere strictly to FUNAAB policies.
Other notable speakers included the Director, Directorate of Sports, Dr. Sam Olabanji; Ag. Director, Health Services, Dr. Oluseyi Anjorin, represented by Dr. Adedayo Oduwole;
Chairman, Senate Committee on Examination Results (SECOCER), Prof. Olusegun Idowu, represented by Prof. Lawrence Egbeyale, and the Director, Physical Planning, Engr. Kehinde Bamisile.
Additional speakers were Dr. Modesta Ofodile and Dr. Adeyinka Tonade, as well as representatives from Mycliq, a fintech company automating payment systems for FUNAABoT Buses, and Globacom, a Telecommunications company.
The Orientation Programme also featured captivating performances by the FUNAAB Theatre Troupe, Kegites Club, and Da Vinci, a newly admitted stand-up comedian.
