By Joy Adeyiga
The Directorate of Public Relations (DPR), Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), has successfully conducted its second In-house Training, themed “Public Relations and the SDGs: Progress, Assessment, and Challenges Over Global Goals.”
Held today, December 18, 2024, at the DPR Conference Room, the Training was aimed at equipping staff members with the necessary knowledge and skills to enhance service delivery and further promote the University’s image while aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Representing the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, at the event, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Olukayode Akinyemi, lauded the DPR Team for their steadfast efforts in projecting FUNAAB’s positive image. He emphasised the relevance of the SDGs in institutional growth, noting that FUNAAB has incorporated the goals into its policies and operations.
“The SDGs are integral to FUNAAB’s mission. I commend the Directorate for this timely initiative and encourage all participants to make the most of this Training,” the Vice-Chancellor stated.
The Keynote Address was delivered by FUNAAB’s SDGs Resource Person and Training Anchor, Prof. Adeniyi Olayanju, who is also a former Vice-Chancellor of Landmark University, Omu-Aran. Prof. Olayanju underscored the importance of sustainable practices that meet current needs without compromising the future.
“Institutions are now assessed based on their alignment with the SDGs through the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings. FUNAAB must remain proactive and strategic in maintaining its visibility and relevance,” he said.
Additional Facilitators, including Dr. Wunmi Abimbola-Okuneye, Director of the Directorate of Technologists and Technical Staff (DITTECS); Prof. Elijah Obayelu, representative of the Director, Directorate of Research, Innovations, and Partnerships (DRIP); Mr. Sunday Dada, representing the Director, Directorate of Academic Planning (DAP); and Mr. Temitope Soretire, Ag. Director of the Information and Communication Technology Resource Centre (ICTREC), commended the initiative. They highlighted the critical role of Public Relations in achieving the SDGs and encouraged the DPR Team to sustain their excellence.
Earlier in his Welcome Address, the Ag. Head, DPR, Mr. Olasunkanmi Olajide, expressed gratitude to the Vice-Chancellor for the unwavering support and approval of the Training, noting that the Directorate organised an In-house Training in January. He highlighted the Directorate’s pivotal role in FUNAAB’s recognition as the Best University of Agriculture in Africa and the 7th Best globally through consistent and impactful reporting.
“This Training is designed to strengthen our capacity to effectively promote FUNAAB’s image and amplify our contributions to achieving the Global Goals,” Mr. Olajide remarked. He urged participants to approach the sessions with open minds and commit to achieving even greater milestones in the coming year.
Goodwill messages were delivered by Mr. Michael Ogunji, an Assistant Registrar at FUNAAB, and Mrs. Yemisi Sofoluwe, a Chief Information Officer from the Federal College of Education (FCE), Osiele. Both commended the Training for its innovation and impact.
The highpoint of the event was the presentation of certificates to participants, marking the culmination of an insightful and impactful Training session.
