Last Updated on August 22, 2025 by Olasunkanmi Olajide
By Olasunkanmi Olajide
The Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, has emphasised that the essence of leadership lies in the ability to solve problems, charging Deans and Directors to embrace problem-solving as the core of leadership.
The Vice-Chancellor gave the charge, while addressing Frontline Officers of the University during the closing session of the 3-Day Retreat organised for Deans and Directors. He encouraged them to adopt problem-solving as the guiding principle of their leadership roles, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to a “no door policy.” He noted that leadership must remain open, accessible, and responsive to issues.
He also urged Deans and Directors to effectively manage their Colleges, Directorates and Institutes, while upholding discipline, stressing that the University would not shield any staff member who violates established rules. He further encouraged inclusivity by engaging both Academic and Non-Teaching staff through regular meetings, creating opportunities and the enabling environment , for members of staff to contribute ideas to the University’s growth.
In his presentation titled “Leveraging Synergy Between Deans, Directors, and Registry: A Strategic Framework for Administrative Efficiency in Colleges and Directorates,” the Registrar, Dr. Titus Adeniyi, recommended regular workshops for Deans and continuous professional development for Registry staff as part of capacity building.
He also called for a clearer definition of roles, the introduction of College Management Committees, and the deployment of integrated digital platforms to ensure seamless communication and information flow. On institutional culture, he advised leaders to promote collaboration over competition, adopt a leadership mindset rather than a boss mentality, and encourage staff growth through constructive correction. He further stressed the need to advocate for increased funding and to maximise TETFund grants for ICT and training.
Similarly, the Bursar, Mr. Olukayode Osinuga, in his paper titled “Financial Regulations and Prudent Fund Management in a University System,” urged the University to invest in advanced financial management software with integrated modules for budgeting, procurement, and asset management.
He also recommended the establishment of a dedicated revenue enhancement unit to identify and develop new income streams, alongside regular financial management training for finance staff and Departmental heads. In addition, he called for the development of a comprehensive financial risk management framework tailored to the University’s operations.
The Retreat also featured awards of excellence. The Most Attentive Participant Award was presented to the immediate past Ag. Registrar, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Dawodu. Excellence Performance Awards in Physical Exercise were presented to Prof. Iyabode Kehinde, Dean, College of Biosciences (COLBIOS); Prof. Adebukunola Omemu, Dean, College of Food Science and Human Ecology (COLFHEC); Prof. Remi Aduradola, Director, Institute of Communication and General Studies (ICGNS); Prof. Emily Ayo-John, Director, Centre for Entrepreneurial Studies (CENTS) and Dr. Wunmi Abimbola-Okuneye, Director, Directorate of Technologists and Technical Staff (DITTECS).
The Director of Sports, Dr. Samuel Olabanji, was also honoured with an Award of Excellence as Training Instructor during the Retreat.
Awards Presentation in pictures 👇
