*inaugurates committee on 70th anniversary
By; BAYO AKAMO, Ibadan
Vice Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Professor Abel Idowu Olayinka has declared that the University has produced high caliber of human resource for Nigeria in particular and the world at large.
Professor Olayinka who dropped this hint while inaugurating the University of Ibadan 70th Anniversary Committee to plan, coordinate and execute various activities to mark the anniversary.
The Vice Chancellor emphasized that the Institution’s products are found in almost every part of the world doing very well, saying , “indeed, we can confidently say our products are our pride as people believe that once this product is from Ibadan”.
“This is the university which has produced high caliber of human resource for Nigeria in particular and the world at large, as UI products are found in almost every part of the world doing very well. Indeed, we can confidently say our products are our pride as people believe that once this product is from Ibadan, it must be the best”he said.
The Vice Chancellor stressed that “though, 70 years in the life of the university was relatively young when compared with some universities across the world, some of which are as old as 700 years, UI must joyfully mark this milestone considering its contributions to national development “
According to Professor Olayinka, “given its prestigious position in higher education in Nigeria, some people have said “every educated Nigerian is either direct or indirect product of UI.” saying, “this is because if you did not attend UI, you must have been taught somewhere by someone who attended UI or who was taught by someone who trained in UI.
Therefore, UI belongs to all Nigerians”
“In the last 70 years of our academic excellence, our achievements are numerous and impactful as it can be seen in the quality of our products in every sphere of life. Therefore, we feel it will not be a bad idea if we come together on this occasion to celebrate, reflect on the journey so far and plan for the future. We intend to bring back our old alumni for flashback and reminiscence , celebrate our icons and inspire the current students towards nothing but the best”.
While charging all the University of Ibadan alumni to be ready for the 70th anniversary celebration,the Vice Chancellor maintained that every alumnus should think about the contributions of the university to their lives with a view to giving back to the university that made them.
Speaking further, Professor Olayinka disclosed that the University would be shopping for the sum of N70billion as capital projects campaign, and that “the dream is achievable if all UI products are harnessed.
It will be recalled that University of Ibadan, the Premier University in Nigeria will be 70 years in November this year.
