UI Dean of Students Urges Student Leaders to Prioritise Collaboration with Management

The Dean of Students at the University of Ibadan (UI), Professor Demola Lewis, has advised student leaders to work collaboratively with the university management rather than position themselves as activists.

The charge was delivered on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kayode O. Adebowale, mni, FAS, fspsp, during a training programme organised by the Career Development and Counselling Centre (CDCC) for Student Union Executive Committee members, the Students’ Representative Council, Hall Chairpersons and Faculty Presidents.

Professor Lewis emphasised that student leadership is a privilege and an opportunity for personal growth and future relevance. He noted that effective engagement with management requires specific competencies that enhance credibility and influence, adding that while activism may create momentum, only constructive collaboration yields sustainable outcomes.

He reaffirmed the management’s openness to respectful, solution-driven dialogue and stressed that leadership training forms a critical part of preparing students for responsibilities beyond their university years. He encouraged participants to engage actively in the training to optimise its value.

The Director of the CDCC, Professor Adebayo Oluwole, CPCN, MPoPAN, reiterated that leadership within the university system is a responsibility and a call to service. He described the University of Ibadan as a national model for excellence, producing graduates who shape discourse and drive progress across sectors. He identified student leaders as strategic influencers whose actions affect academic engagement, campus stability and national development.

Professor Oluwole stated that the training was designed to strengthen competencies in governance, mental health advocacy, drug abuse prevention, relationship management and sustainable impact. He disclosed the theme as “Empowering Student Leaders for Effective Governance, Mental Health Awareness, Drug Abuse Prevention, and Sustainable Impact.”

He acknowledged the support of the Vice-Chancellor and highlighted that the values cultivated during the programme would shape participants’ service quality and long-term legacy. Participants were urged to apply the insights gained across their halls, faculties and constituencies.

The training featured sessions facilitated by subject-matter experts, including:

• Professor Jubril Abdulmalik, Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, represented by Dr. Alero Adegbolagun, University Health Services: “Student Leadership and Mental Health Advocacy: Building Resilient and Supportive Campuses.”
• Commander Joe-Fadile Olayinka, NDLEA Commandant, Oyo State Command, represented by Superintendent of Narcotics Sogbe A. Olufesobi: “Drug Abuse Dangers and Prevention: The Role of Student Leadership in Promoting Healthy Lifestyle.”
• Professor Demola Lewis, Dean of Students: “From Representation to Inclusion: Enhancing Participatory Governance in Student Leadership at UI.”
• Dr. Olukemi Akinyemi, Coordinator, UI Youth Friendly Centre: “Enhancing Interpersonal Relationships and Peer Support for Optimal Academic Achievement.”