FUNAAB COLBIOS Opens 2026 with 3-in-1 Programme, Rewards Academic Excellence

The Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), through its College of Biosciences (COLBIOS), on Tuesday, January 28, 2026, commenced activities for the year with a 3-in-1 programme comprising a Prayer Session, the Dean’s Honour Award and a Get-Together.

The programme, themed “Beginning with Prayer, Sustaining Excellence,” brought together academic and non-teaching staff, students, alumni and invited guests to reflect, give thanks and celebrate outstanding academic achievements within the College.

Speaking at the event, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Olusegun Idowu, described COLBIOS as a unique and strategic component of the University. He noted that having a member of the University Council serving across three national institutions was a rare accomplishment that further attested to the College’s growing influence and reputation.

The Vice-Chancellor described the College’s early-year progress as “biblical,” attributing its steady development to divine backing and strong leadership over the years. He urged members of the College to use the occasion for reflection, self-assessment and renewed commitment to institutional excellence. He also commended academic staff, retired staff and key stakeholders for their roles in mentoring students and strengthening the College.

Congratulating the graduating students, he stated that academic excellence is the outcome of discipline, sacrifice, teamwork and consistent adherence to standards.

In her remarks, the Dean, College of Biosciences, Prof. Iyabode Kehinde, explained that the programme is an annual tradition aimed at acknowledging God as the foundation of the College’s achievements while reinforcing a culture of excellence in teaching, research and administration.

She noted that the event also served as an opportunity for relaxation and bonding after intense academic activities, helping to promote unity and collaboration among staff. According to her, the interfaith prayer session, led by Christian and Muslim clerics, was deliberately included to commit the affairs of the College to God at the beginning of the year, seeking guidance, protection, unity and favour for staff and students.

Prof. Kehinde added that COLBIOS occupies a central position within FUNAAB, citing its facilities, committed workforce and pivotal role in the academic training of students across the University.

A former Dean of the defunct College of Natural Sciences, Prof. Tope Popoola, described the gathering as a valuable reunion that highlighted the enduring relationships built through years of teamwork and service. He emphasised the importance of life and good health in sustaining meaningful contributions to the College and announced a cash reward for Miss Folashade Osunlana, the best graduating student in the Department of Microbiology, who graduated with a CGPA of 4.60.

The Guest Speaker, Mr. Obawunmi Jiboku, described Prof. Iyabode Kehinde as a selfless and service-oriented leader whose vision prioritises unity and collective responsibility. He presented a cash prize to Esther John-Babatunde, the overall best graduating student in the College with a CGPA of 4.80, announced his commitment to sponsoring the award annually, and instituted a cash prize for the best lecturer in the College.