FUTA Secondary School Graduates Urged to Dream Big at 2026 Valedictory, Prize-Giving Ceremony

Graduating students of the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) Secondary School have been encouraged to dream beyond their present circumstances, live purposeful lives, and remain worthy ambassadors of their alma mater as they prepare for the next stage of their academic journey.

The message was delivered during the school's 2026 Valedictory Service and Prize-Giving Day, which celebrated academic excellence, character development, and the outstanding achievements of the graduating class.

The Vice-Chancellor of FUTA, Prof. Adenike Oladiji, congratulated the students on the successful completion of their secondary education, describing the occasion as a significant milestone. She urged them to uphold the values of integrity, discipline, diligence, and excellence for which FUTA Secondary School is known.

Prof. Oladiji reminded the graduating students that education is a lifelong journey and encouraged them to continue acquiring knowledge while using it to make meaningful contributions to society. She also commended the teachers for their dedication to nurturing future leaders and appreciated parents for their sacrifices and unwavering support.

The Chairman of the FUTA Secondary School Management Board, Prof. Rufus Ogunsemi, congratulated the graduating class on their resilience, perseverance, and academic achievements. He encouraged them to remain focused on their aspirations and continue striving for excellence while applauding members of staff for their commitment to quality education. He also thanked parents for partnering with the school in raising responsible and disciplined children.

Speaking on behalf of parents, the Chairman of the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA), Mr. Remi Ijaboyefe, expressed appreciation to the University Management, the School Management Board, the Principal, and staff for their commitment to the academic and moral development of the students. He urged the graduates to remain disciplined, humble, and hardworking as they progress to higher institutions, stressing that good character is one of life's greatest assets.

In his welcome address, the Principal of FUTA Secondary School, Mr. Rufus Ajayi, thanked the University Management and other stakeholders for their continued support toward the growth of the school. He congratulated the graduating students and encouraged them to remain committed to excellence while serving as worthy representatives of the institution wherever they go.

The highlight of the ceremony was the valedictory lecture delivered by Prof. Olayinka Oni on the theme, "Dream Big, Live with Purpose."

In her presentation, Prof. Oni encouraged the graduating students to celebrate not only their destination but also the journey that brought them there, noting that the experiences, friendships, and values acquired over the years were just as important as their academic certificates.

She told the students that success is never accidental and that challenges are meant to strengthen rather than discourage them. According to her, they should take pride not only in their achievements but also in the individuals they have become through perseverance and discipline.

Prof. Oni emphasized that character remains a person's greatest advantage, urging the graduates to let honesty and integrity guide every decision. She warned that while reputation takes years to build, it can be destroyed in a single moment.

She further encouraged the students to dream beyond their current circumstances, stressing that determination shapes destiny. She urged them to apply the knowledge they have acquired to solving societal problems and becoming agents of positive change.

The guest lecturer also challenged the graduating class to remain worthy ambassadors of FUTA Secondary School through exemplary conduct, academic excellence, and responsible leadership. She concluded by appreciating parents for their sacrifices, encouragement, and commitment to their children's education and overall development.

The ceremony also featured prayers for the graduating students, presentation of certificates, awards and prizes to outstanding students in academics, leadership, sports, and good conduct, as well as musical performances and goodwill messages from invited guests.