FUNIS Celebrates Academic Excellence at 20th Speech and Prize-Giving Ceremony

The Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta International School (FUNIS) has celebrated academic excellence and honoured the graduating Class of 2026 during its 20th Speech and Prize-Giving Ceremony and 17th Valedictory Service.

Held under the theme, "Dream, Believe, Achieve," the event brought together members of the university community, parents, guardians, alumni and other distinguished guests to recognise outstanding academic achievements and bid farewell to the graduating students.

Representing the Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Development), Prof. Olawale Dairo, congratulated the graduating students, parents, staff and the FUNIS community on the successful completion of another academic session.

He commended the steady increase in student enrolment and the school's continued growth, attributing the achievements to the collective efforts of the university management, staff and other stakeholders. He also urged the graduating students to remain worthy ambassadors of the institution.

Delivering the keynote address titled "Believe in Your Dream," Mr. Oluwatimilehin Adebisi encouraged the students to pursue their aspirations with faith, determination and hard work. He stressed that discipline, resilience, continuous learning and focus are essential ingredients for lasting success.

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) and Chairman of the FUNAAB Schools' Management Board, Prof. Olusegun Idowu, described the ceremony as a celebration of perseverance, excellence and achievement. He congratulated the graduating students and commended the Governing Council, members of the Schools' Management Board, the FUNIS management, staff, parents and guardians for their support throughout the academic session.

Prof. Idowu encouraged the graduating students to uphold the values of honesty, humility, discipline and service to humanity as they proceed to higher institutions of learning. He reaffirmed the university's commitment to delivering quality education that equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to compete globally and contribute to national development. He also expressed optimism that many of the graduates would continue their academic journey at FUNAAB.

In his welcome address, the Principal of FUNIS, Mr. Olusola Ilori, thanked God for the successful completion of the 2025/2026 academic session. He described the event as a celebration of excellence and the successful completion of six years of secondary education by the graduating Class of 2026, popularly known as "D'BERLYS."

Mr. Ilori appreciated the Vice-Chancellor, the FUNAAB Schools' Management Board, parents, the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) and members of staff for their unwavering support toward the school's continued development. He congratulated the award recipients and urged all students to remain disciplined, focused and committed to excellence while encouraging the graduating class to uphold integrity, discipline and good character.

Also speaking, Dr. Fauziyah Adenekan, who delivered a goodwill message on behalf of the University Librarian, congratulated the graduating students and encouraged them to cultivate a lifelong reading culture, embrace continuous learning and uphold the values of integrity, humility and excellence. She also commended parents, teachers and the school management for their role in nurturing future leaders.

One of the highlights of the ceremony was the presentation of prizes and awards to students for outstanding academic performance and exemplary conduct. Overall best-performing students across different classes received special recognition, while deserving members of staff were also honoured for their contributions.

The event was attended by members of the university management, the FUNAAB Schools' Management Board, staff of FUNIS, parents, guardians, alumni, students and other distinguished guests.