UI DVC Attributes Distance Learning Centre’s Growth to Dedicated Service of Staff

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) of the University of Ibadan, Professor Juwon T. Arotiba, has attributed the remarkable growth of the University of Ibadan Distance Learning Centre (UIDLC) to years of dedicated service and commitment by its officials and staff.

Professor Arotiba made the remark on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kayode O. Adebowale, during a send-off ceremony organised to honour members of staff who had completed their terms of service or had been redeployed to other units and divisions within the university.

He stated that the honourees played critical roles in revitalising the Distance Learning Centre during a pivotal period in its development and helped establish a solid foundation for its continued growth and success.

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor particularly commended the immediate past Director of the Centre, Professor Emmanuel B. Omobowale, for his efforts in increasing student enrolment and strengthening the Centre’s operations.

According to him, Professor Omobowale’s commitment to repositioning the Centre created the enabling environment that allowed the current administration to build on existing achievements.

Professor Arotiba expressed satisfaction that the current Director of the Centre, Professor Olufade W. Onifade, who previously served as Deputy Director (Academic), succeeded Professor Omobowale, ensuring continuity and sustainability in leadership.

He noted that one of the strongest indicators of a successful tenure is the ability to hand over to a capable successor who can sustain and improve on previous accomplishments.

Describing the ceremony as a gesture of appreciation, Professor Arotiba said it was organised to recognise the dedication, sacrifices, and achievements of former officers whose contributions have significantly shaped the Centre’s transformation and current status.

In his remarks, the Director of the Distance Learning Centre, Professor Olufade W. Onifade, said the event was organised to celebrate service, leadership, dedication, and the enduring impact of individuals who contributed immensely to the growth and development of the Centre.

He explained that the occasion was more than a farewell gathering, describing it as an opportunity to acknowledge years of commitment, celebrate notable achievements, and express gratitude to individuals whose careers were marked by excellence and selfless service.

Professor Onifade noted that the University of Ibadan Distance Learning Centre has evolved into one of Nigeria’s leading providers of quality distance education, attributing the achievement to the vision, hard work, and sacrifices of committed personnel.

He commended the former officers for demonstrating professionalism, integrity, diligence, and unwavering commitment throughout their service.

According to him, their contributions have left lasting impacts on institutional systems, operational processes, staff development initiatives, and the overall learning experience of students enrolled at the Centre.

Professor Onifade added that the legacy of the former officers would continue to inspire present and future generations of staff and students within the University of Ibadan community.

Those honoured at the ceremony included:

• Immediate Past Director, Professor E. B. Omobowale
• Immediate Past Deputy Director (Administration), Professor Omobola Adelore
• Immediate Past Deputy Registrar, Dr. Morounfolu Oyebola
• Former Deans of Education, Professors O. A. Fakolade and A. O. Adegbesan
• Former Senate Representatives on the UIDLC Finance Committee, Professors A. A. Ogunjobi and Funmilayo Ajani
• Twenty-three other former members of staff

The ceremony recognised their contributions to the growth, administration, and development of the University of Ibadan Distance Learning Centre.