Professor Elizabeth Emeke Advocates Resilience as Key to Overcoming Life's Challenges in Valedictory Lecture

In her valedictory lecture, titled "Sojourning in Nigeria’s Premier University: A Counsellor-Evaluator’s Journey of Growth, Resilience, and Hope," Professor Elizabeth Adenike Emeke, a distinguished Professor of Educational Evaluation at the University of Ibadan, underscored the importance of resilience as a crucial strategy for navigating life’s obstacles.

Reflecting on her 35-year career at Nigeria’s premier university, Professor Emeke shared personal and professional insights, emphasizing that growth, resilience, and hope are essential tools for overcoming adversity. Drawing from her extensive academic and life experiences, she encouraged individuals to view challenges as opportunities for learning, adaptation, and personal growth.

Professor Emeke praised the University of Ibadan for fostering an environment that promotes inclusivity, diversity, and social responsibility. She highlighted how both staff and students are inspired to persevere through challenges, learn from mistakes, and emerge stronger. According to her, problems should be viewed as challenges rather than setbacks, and individuals should focus on what they can control rather than be defined by negative events.

In her lecture, she offered practical advice on building resilience, including the importance of forgiveness, relaxation, learning from resilient role models, embracing change, and cultivating gratitude. Professor Emeke encouraged people to practise optimism, engage in expressive writing, and focus on personal growth to better handle life’s hurdles.

Reflecting on her counselling experience, she noted, “Everyone has a story not told and a journey not shared,” stressing how hope and perseverance play pivotal roles in helping students and staff at the university overcome their personal and academic struggles.

Professor Emeke, who humorously conferred upon herself the title of "Native of UI" after spending 49 years on the University of Ibadan campus—both as a student and faculty member—urged members of the university community to embrace their personal journeys with courage, humility, and an open heart.

Born on August 19, 1954, Professor Emeke earned her B.Ed., M.Ed., and Ph.D. degrees from the University of Ibadan. She joined the university's services in 1979 and rose through the ranks to become a professor in 2007. As she bids farewell to active academic service, she leaves behind a legacy of resilience, growth, and hope that will continue to inspire the University of Ibadan community.