FUNAAB VC Charges New FPY Students to Consider Themselves Ambassadors of the University

The Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), Professor Babatunde Kehinde, has urged students of the 2025/2026 Academic Session Farm Practical Year (FPY) to view themselves as ambassadors of the University, both within and beyond its campuses.

The charge was delivered at the opening session of the FPY Orientation Programme, organised by the Centre for Community-Based Farming Scheme (COBFAS) under the theme: “Agriculture in the Modern World: Navigating the New Reality and Complexity.” Represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Development), Professor Olawale Dairo, the Vice-Chancellor described FPY as a unique 12-month intensive programme that sets FUNAAB apart from other Nigerian universities.

Professor Kehinde encouraged the students to embrace discipline, creativity, and resilience, while also contributing meaningfully to the University’s enduring legacy. He highlighted that the programme provides a rare opportunity to acquire practical skills, sharpen entrepreneurial thinking, and translate classroom theories into real-life experiences.

In his lecture, “FUNAAB Ambassador: Your Roles,” Professor Festus Adeosun, Dean of the Student Affairs Division, stressed that FPY students must uphold the University’s values and represent FUNAAB with integrity wherever they are posted.

The Director of COBFAS, Professor Kazeem Bello, in his paper titled “Do it Yourself,” urged the students to fully maximise the programme by learning, working, and earning during the 12 months. He explained that assessments would include punctuality, assignments, fieldwork, logbook entries, and examinations, cautioning that negligence could result in failure.

The Director of SIWES, Professor Oluwatoyin Afolabi, represented by Mr. Essien Emmanuel, advised students to follow the official guidelines carefully during online registration and documentation, emphasising the importance of accurate record-keeping.

Other speakers at the orientation included:

• Mrs. Oluwatoyin Dawodu, Head of SERVICOM Unit and former Acting Registrar (represented by Mrs. Gladys Solanke)
• Dr. Oluseyi Anjorin, Director, Health Centre (represented by Dr. Nasiru Oyelekan)
• Dr. Emmanuel Bankole, Acting Director, Directorate of University Farms (represented by Dr. Tunrayo Adekunle)
• Mr. Olugbenga Fasina, Deputy Director (Farms)
• Mr. Bolarinwa Peter, Assistant Chief Environmental Officer (represented by Mr. Adeogun Ayelabola)
• Comrade Olamilekan Michael, President, Students’ Union Government

The event highlighted FUNAAB’s commitment to producing skilled, disciplined, and socially responsible agricultural graduates capable of driving development and innovation in Nigeria and beyond.