ACU Vice-Chancellor Describes DBA Students As “Special” During Welcome Address

The Vice-Chancellor of Ajayi Crowther University (ACU), Oyo, Professor Ebunoluwa Oduwole, has described the university’s current Doctor of Business Administration (D.BA) students as “special” while officially welcoming them to the programme.

Professor Oduwole made the remarks during an address to the students, recognising their decision to leave their professional comfort zones in cities including Lagos, Abuja and Ibadan to participate in the advanced academic programme.

She said the presence of the students is highly valued by both the university management and programme organisers, noting that their professional backgrounds and experiences make them an important part of the ACU academic community.

“We know that you have left your comfort zone — Lagos, Abuja, Ibadan, everywhere — to be with us here. That’s also part of the reason why we appreciate you,” the Vice-Chancellor said.

Her remarks drew applause and excitement from the students as she wished them success throughout their academic journey.

Professor Oduwole explained that the D.BA students, as experienced professionals, were not returning to the classroom merely to receive information but to connect their practical knowledge with structured academic theories.

She noted that the programme would go beyond traditional classroom learning by encouraging discussions, knowledge sharing and the exchange of professional experiences among participants from different sectors.

Sharing insights from her own teaching experience in communication and leadership, the Vice-Chancellor emphasised that leadership theories are not absolute, stating that no single leadership style can be considered superior in every situation.

She encouraged the students to actively participate in classroom discussions, stressing that the D.BA programme requires engagement with diverse perspectives and practical experiences rather than relying on only one approach to solving problems.

At the end of her address, Professor Oduwole expressed appreciation to the students on behalf of the university management and wished them a successful and rewarding academic experience.

The event was attended by members of the university management team, including the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Professor Afolake Olanbiwonninu; Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Professor Olukayode Binuyo; Registrar, Dr. Bode Olofinmuagun; Bursar, Dr. Ayodele Olusanwo; University Librarian, Professor Bose Ajiboye; and Dean of Postgraduate Studies, Professor Paul Akanbi, among others.

The D.BA programme at Ajayi Crowther University is designed to help experienced professionals strengthen their practical knowledge through advanced theoretical engagement, critical thinking and collaborative learning.