UI DVC Charges Newly Recruited Staff To Uphold University's Values, Protect Its Reputation

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Administration of the University of Ibadan, Professor Peter O. Olapegba FNPA, fspsp, http://C.Psych, FSSAN, has charged newly recruited academic and non-academic as well as newly converted staff of the University to uphold its core values, demonstrate professionalism and remain committed to the institution's growth and development.

He gave this charge on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kayode O. Adebowale, mni, FAS, fspsp, while addressing participants at a 2-day orientation programme organized for staff of the University from Friday, 9 to Saturday, 10 October 2026.

The theme of the orientation programme was: "Repositioning Academic Leadership for Administrative Excellence and Sustainable Growth".

Professor Olapegba described the staff as the University's greatest asset, noting that both academic and non-academic personnel play indispensable roles in ensuring effective administration, supporting teaching and research, and sustaining the institution's reputation.

He emphasized the importance of dedication, integrity, accountability, discipline, teamwork and quality service delivery in achieving institutional excellence.

He explained that appointments into the University is both a privilege and a responsibility, given the competitive nature of recruitment and the high standards expected of members of staff.

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor urged the new employees to regard their appointments as opportunities to contribute meaningfully to the development of one of Nigeria's foremost universities, adding that the institution's success depended not only on its strategic plans but also on the commitment, efficiency and professionalism of its workforce.

He stressed that every staff member had a role to play in advancing the mission of the University, irrespective of rank, designation or category of employment.

He restated that every task, regardless of its size, contributes to the institution's pursuit of excellence and deserves to be performed diligently.

Professor Olapegba further urged the staff to protect the University's resources, uphold its reputation and maintain high ethical standards in their official and personal conducts, particularly in the age of social media.

He cautioned them against actions that could portray the institution negatively, reminding them that their conduct and public presentation also reflected on the University.

The DVC also emphasized the need to treat students with care and responsibility, describing them as valuable members of the University community whose development and welfare must remain a priority.

He encouraged the newly recruited staff to promote mutual respect, inclusiveness, cooperation and supportive relationships in the workplace, while taking advantage of opportunities for personal and professional development.

The DVC assured them of the University's commitment to creating an enabling environment where staff could develop their capacities, contribute meaningfully and achieve professional fulfilment.

He said, in return, the institution expects loyalty, dedication and a strong commitment to its advancement, urging participants to take the orientation programme seriously, ask questions, learn from experienced resource persons and familiarise themselves with the University's policies, expectations and work culture.

Professor Olapegba congratulated the newly recruited staff on their appointments and expressed confidence that their contributions would strengthen the University's commitment to academic excellence and effective service delivery.

In his remarks, the Registrar, Mr G. O. Saliu, JP, FNIM, FCIML, fspsp, MANUPA, MAUA, urged participants to ensure active participation throughout the programme.

He stressed the importance of placing students' welfare at the centre of the University's operations, noting that staff members had a responsibility to treat students with care and provide the necessary support for their academic and personal development.

According to him, the ability of the University to achieve its objectives depended largely on how effectively its staff performed their duties and supported students throughout their academic journey.

He also encouraged participants to embrace the University's digital transformation agenda by completing a Google Form circulated as part of efforts to strengthen the institution's electronic systems and improve administrative processes.

According to him, staff participation and cooperation were essential to building a more efficient working environment and ensuring that digital initiatives achieved their intended objectives.

Mr Saliu encouraged the participants to embrace digital systems, improve their professional skills and contribute meaningfully to the institution's development.

He expressed hope that the orientation programme would equip the newly recruited staff with the knowledge, skills and professional values needed to excel in their respective roles and contribute to the continued growth of the University.

The Registrar encouraged participants to always remain open to learning and personal development, stressing that they should leave the programme better informed, more prepared and committed to the University's mission.

Five papers presented on the first day of the orientation and facilitators were:

- "Internal Audit as a Value-Adding Service" by Dr J.O. Oluyori, Director of Audit

- "From Individual Performance to Institutional Impact: Building a Culture of Excellence for Global University Ranking" by Emeritus Prof. G.O.S Ekhaguere, FAAS, NNOM, Department of Mathematics

- "Alumni Engagement, Advancement and Resource Mobilisation for Institutional Growth" by Prof. O.A. Adegbesan, Dept of Human Kinetics, UI

- "Digital Transformation for Efficient Academic and Administrative Management" and "Operationalizing the Digital Leave Module" by Mrs Abiodun A. Alao, Director of ITeMs, UI

The second day of the orientation programme featured technical and breakout sessions for newly recruited non-teaching staff of different cadres.