UI Registry Lauded as Best in Nigeria, Pioneers AI Integration in Administration

The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan (UI), Professor Kayode O. Adebowale, mni, FAS, fspsp, has commended the institution’s Registry as the best in Nigeria, highlighting its legacy of producing world-class administrators and human resource managers.

Speaking at the opening of a three-day retreat for senior officers of the Registry, held at the Conference Hotel and Suites, Ijebu-Ode, Professor Adebowale celebrated the Registry’s role in training generations of skilled administrators who have gone on to excel nationwide. “UI is not just a producer of administrators but an exporter of Registrars, Deputy Registrars, and Principal Assistant Registrars to institutions across Nigeria,” he stated.

The Vice-Chancellor emphasized the importance of continuous learning, urging participants to adapt to the rapidly evolving landscape of higher education administration. He called for leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enhance operational efficiency, improve decision-making, and optimize student and staff experiences.

Highlighting UI’s strides in adopting digital tools, Professor Adebowale noted the university’s use of AI for processing student results, managing transcripts, streamlining student registration, and maintaining staff and medical records. “The world is on the brink of a digital revolution,” he said, adding, “Those who fail to adapt will become victims of change.”

The retreat, themed "Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Administration of Higher Education," provided a platform for reflection, collaboration, and capacity building among senior officers. Papers presented included:

• "Inclusive Leadership in Practice: Promoting Teamwork Engagement" by Mrs. Grace Alexander, CEO of Fortitudo Coaching, UK.
• "Demystifying AI in Higher Education: Unlocking Data-Driven Decision Making" by Mr. Ola Olarinde, COO of Talents Inc.
• "Cyborgs or Sapiens: The Future of the University Registry" by Chief Mojisola Ladipo, mni, FNIM, D.Litt (Honoris Causa).

Registrar Mr. Ganiyu O. Saliu, fspsp, FCIML, lauded the retreat as a valuable opportunity for senior officers to step away from daily routines and strategize for the Registry’s future. He emphasized the need to tackle challenges such as talent retention, technological advancements, and shifting workplace dynamics to maintain the Registry’s excellence.

The event brought together four Senior Deputy Registrars, 19 Deputy Registrars, and a team of professional and technical support personnel to discuss key topics, including "Sharpening Our Administrative Tools: Staff Information Handbook/Scheme of Service."

With its continued focus on innovation, excellence, and AI-driven transformation, the University of Ibadan’s Registry remains a pacesetter in higher education administration.