“The Strength of the University of Ibadan Lies in the Seamless Continuity of its Leadership,” says VC

The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Professor Kayode O. Adebowale, mni, FAS, fspsp, has asserted that the strength of the university lies in the seamless continuity of its leadership. 

He made this assertion at a transition programme to appreciate some outgoing Deans of Faculties and welcome newly elected Deans to their new official assignments in their respective faculties.

Professor Adebowale said the transition programme underscores a fundamental truth that the strength of the university lies in the collective efforts and seamless continuity of its vision, which underpins leadership at different levels. 

According to him, the baton of leadership may be passed from one dispensation to another, but the race towards excellence in administration continues. 

He acknowledged that leadership demands more than just administrative competence; it requires wisdom, patience, resilience and an unwavering commitment to the ideals of the university and appreciated the deans for being mentors, mediators, advocates and visionaries. 

He stated that UI owes them a debt of gratitude for their steadfast service and sacrifices, reminding them that their experience and wisdom remain vital assets after stepping down from their roles. 

The Vice-Chancellor congratulated the incoming Deans of Faculties and welcomed them to the critical leadership cadre of the institution. 

He urged them to sustain excellence, foster collegiality, drive innovation, manage effectively, be visionary, lean on the experiences of their predecessors, and seek counsel from their senior colleagues. 

He urged both the outgoing and incoming deans to foster a spirit of collaboration, stressing that they should serve their staff, students, and uphold the mission of the University of Ibadan while reiterating that the strength of the university lies in the collective effort and seamless continuity of its leadership. 

The Registrar, Mr. Ganiyu O. Saliu, in an earlier remark, noted that the transition programme is a tradition in the University of Ibadan and appreciated the Vice-Chancellor for sustaining the tradition. 

Professor S.O. Oyetade of the Faculty of Arts while reminiscencing on behalf of the outgoing Deans, appreciated the Vice Chancellor for granting the outgoing Deans the privilege of being appointed to serve in their capacities, submitting that the university had invested in them and they would be willing to give back for the advancement of their various faculties.

Professor Oyetade emphasized the need for oneness as a catalyst for growth and excellence, making a commitment on behalf of other outgoing deans to make themselves available to serve as guides for the incoming Deans. 

On behalf of the incoming deans, Professor Taiwo Kotila of the Faculty of Basic Clinical Sciences appreciated the Vice Chancellor and management for the transition programme and pledged support and sacrifice in the fulfillment of their mandates in their respective faculties.