UI VC Says Leadership Continuity Reflects Institutional Progress

The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Professor Kayode O. Adebowale, mni, FAS, fspsp, has described the seamless continuity of leadership at the University as a reflection of the institution’s progress and commitment to excellence.

Professor Adebowale made the assertion at a ceremony held to appreciate outgoing Deans of Faculties and welcome newly elected Deans to their official assignments in their respective faculties.

The Vice-Chancellor said the ceremony underscored the fundamental truth that the strength of the University lies in the collective efforts and seamless continuity of its vision, which is reflected in leadership at different levels.

According to him, while the baton of leadership may be passed from one administration to another, the focus and efforts towards achieving excellence in administration continue.

Professor Adebowale, however, noted that leadership demands more than administrative competence, stressing that it requires wisdom, patience, resilience and an unwavering commitment to the ideals of the University.

He appreciated the outgoing Deans for serving as mentors, mediators, advocates and visionaries, noting that the University owes them a debt of gratitude for their steadfast service and sacrifices.

The Vice-Chancellor reminded the outgoing Deans that their experience and wisdom would remain vital assets to the University even after stepping down from their respective positions.

Professor Adebowale congratulated the incoming Provost, Deans of Faculties and Directors of Institutes, welcoming them to the critical leadership cadre of the institution.

He urged the new leaders to sustain excellence, foster collegiality, drive innovation, manage effectively and remain visionary.

He also encouraged them to draw from the experiences of their predecessors and seek counsel from senior colleagues.

Professor Adebowale urged both the outgoing and incoming Deans to foster a spirit of collaboration, stressing the need for them to serve their staff and students and uphold the mission of the University of Ibadan.

He reiterated that the strength of the University lies in the collective effort and seamless continuity of its leadership.

Earlier in his remarks, the Registrar, Mr. Ganiyu O. Saliu, JP, FNIM, FCIML, MANUPA, fspsp, disclosed that the transition programme is highly valued by the University administration because it provides an opportunity to celebrate some of the University’s finest who have served in top administrative positions.

He acknowledged the daunting responsibility associated with occupying the office of Dean of a Faculty or Director of an Institute or Centre, while expressing deep appreciation to the outgoing leaders for their meritorious services to the University.

Speaking on behalf of the outgoing Deans, the outgoing Dean of Basic Medical Sciences, Professor Oyeronke Odunola, appreciated their respective faculties for giving them the opportunity to serve in their capacities.

She described their tenure as a fascinating journey during which they enjoyed the support of the University Management.

On behalf of the incoming Deans, Professor A.O. Lawanson of the Faculty of Economics and Management Sciences appreciated the University for the confidence reposed in them to coordinate the affairs of their respective faculties.

Professor Lawanson assured the University that the confidence placed in the incoming leaders would be justified, particularly in their role of serving as a bridge between their faculties and the University Management.