Why Education Should Shape Character, Not Just Careers- Prof Yusuf Ali

 Education Beyond Certificates: Prof Yusuf Ali Urges UNIOSUN Community to Build Character

Education should not only produce graduates with certificates but also individuals with strong moral values and integrity. This was the central message delivered by former Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council of Osun State University, Professor Yusuf Ali, during the maiden Folorunso Alakija Annual Lecture held at the university auditorium in Òṣogbo.

The lecture, titled *“A Life of Impact and a Legacy of Service: Lessons from Apostle Folorunso Alakija,”* celebrated the contributions and leadership of renowned businesswoman and philanthropist Folorunso Alakija as Chancellor of the institution.

Professor Yusuf Ali emphasized that education must serve as a tool for character formation rather than mere certification. According to him, the true purpose of learning is not just to earn degrees but to shape responsible individuals capable of contributing positively to society.

Speaking about Apostle Alakija’s impact on the university, he noted that she approached her role as Chancellor with dedication and sincerity. He described her contributions to the growth of the institution as both enduring and transformational.

“Her philanthropic efforts reflect a moral commitment to giving,” he stated, adding that her investments in the university would remain lasting legacies for generations to come.

Professor Ali further stressed the importance of purposeful ambition and integrity, urging students and members of the university community to embrace values that inspire meaningful impact.

“If Apostle Alakija had been thinking the way many of us think, she would not have contributed a dime to UNIOSUN’s development,” he said.

 He encouraged the audience with a powerful message:“Let ambition be guided by purpose, let resilience transform adversity into growth, and let integrity anchor achievement.”Also speaking at the event, Ademola Adeleke expressed appreciation to Apostle Alakija for her years of service to the university. The governor also announced the appointment of Mrs Victoria Adunola Samson as the new Chancellor of the institution.

In his welcome address, the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Professor Odunayo Clement Adebooye, described Apostle Alakija as a humble and hardworking leader whose tenure brought tremendous development to the institution.

Highlighting some of the achievements recorded during her time as Chancellor, Adebooye revealed that the number of Bachelor of Science programmes increased significantly, while student enrollment experienced remarkable growth over the years.

He also disclosed that Apostle Alakija personally donated N250 million towards the university’s N350 million dual carriageway project, a contribution he described as a major milestone in the institution’s infrastructural development.

In her remarks, Apostle Alakija expressed gratitude to the university community for their support throughout her tenure. She attributed her accomplishments to God’s grace and acknowledged the support of her family.

“I thank God that I said yes at the beginning and for all those who supported me on this journey, including my husband and children,” she said. The event also featured goodwill messages from dignitaries, including representatives of former Osun State Governor Olagunsoye Oyinlola, who described Apostle Alakija as a rare woman of excellence and impact. The lecture served as a reminder that true education extends beyond academic success. It is about nurturing integrity, service, leadership, and compassion — values that create lasting legacies and transform society for the better.