On Tuesday, the Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, gave the three best-graduating students of the Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED), Ijagun, a sum of N2 million each for their exceptional academic performances.
He announced the gift during the 13th, 14th, and 15th convocation ceremonies of the institution for the 2020–2021, 2021–2022, and 2022–2023 academic calendars.
Abiodun also announced a N500,000 gift to the best-graduating students in each of the colleges for the three years from 2020 to 2023.
The recipients are Sunday Oluwafemi, with a GPA of 4.89 (2020/2021); Obadina Patricia Elibe, with a GPA of 4.89 (2021/2022); and Mercy Deborah Sanyaolu, with a GPA of 4.86 (2022/2023).
The governor announced a cash donation of N250,000 to a first-class student, Okewale Nelson, who, despite taking advantage of the ingenious work-study programme of the institution, was able to earn a first-class degree in mathematics.
Abiodun disclosed that the feat recorded by Nelson has shown that working while studying is not a deterrent to academic success, calling on other students to take advantage of the program and go the same way.
The governor, while empathising with the students over a recent robbery attack on some of their colleagues residing off campus, said that his administration would root out those obstructing the peace being enjoyed in the state.
He noted that his government remains and maintains a zero-tolerance policy for criminal activities, even as he warned of dire consequences for anyone caught disrupting the peace of the state.
Governor Abiodun urged the graduating students to reciprocate the gift of learning and character modelling that the institution has bestowed on them, noting that his administration remains committed to creating an enabling environment for growth and development aimed at making the state economically stable for all.
Abiodun promised that his administration would continue to work diligently for the purpose of utilising the vocational courses acquired during their time in school.
He charged the graduates not to allow the fear of failure to deter them from taking the opportunities, noting that the path ahead may be demanding, but challenges are stepping stones to greatness.
In his address, the institution’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Oluwole Banjo, disclosed that 12,700 students graduated in the 13th, 14th, and 15th combined convocation ceremonies, while 329 graduated in the postgraduate college.
He also said that 113 students graduated with first-class honours while advising the new graduates to be persistent, determined, and never to lose hope of their dreams on their way to success in life.
Banjo charged the new graduates to be good ambassadors of TASUED by displaying the good values inculcated in them while they were students.
“Your hard work, dedication, and unwavering commitment have brought you to this pivotal moment. You have not only acquired knowledge but have also grown as individuals, and today, you reap the rewards of your perseverance.
“As you move forward into the next phase of your lives, it’s important to reflect on the values that have been instilled in you during your time at TASUED. Remember the importance of intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and the pursuit of knowledge. Continue to ask questions, seek answers, and never stop learning,” he said.
In his remarks, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Council, Prof. Rahamon Bello, noted that the institution has developed a reputation as being dynamic, accessible, and responsive to change.
