By Toyin Falola
Iba.
Kabiyesi, Oba Dr. Victor Adesimbo Kiladejo, I am coming to the Ondo Kingdom to address the Convocation at Adeyemi Federal University of Education. His Imperial Majesty must permit me to enter as his Bobapitan. I need the key to the city!
Abaye, my motive is genuine: to rejoice with the Adeyemi Federal University of Education on its 2025 Convocation Ceremonies. I am not sending you on an errand, but please help me to use the irukere to thank Professor Samuel Akintunde, the Acting Vice-Chancellor. I will ask Professor Femi Mimiko, the Jomulaja, to read to you my reasons.
In every society, there are principles, rules, and commandments we follow as citizens. And even in the Bible, we are guided by the Ten Commandments. The command to lead and serve has been a lighthouse for Adeyemi Federal University of Education’s path. I am privileged to have been acknowledged by this prestigious institution for my contributions to the humanities. The vision and principles of this university reflect the command to aim for excellence, and its dedication to quality innovation has never been matched or questioned. Driven in our journey as a preacher of the humanities is the need to make a difference, leave a lasting impact, and inspire others. Being connected to this institution that prioritizes human resource investments makes me proud.
Adeyemi Federal University of Education—formerly Adeyemi College of Education—was earlier affiliated with Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, for its degree programs. However, the institution was named after Canon M.C. Adeyemi for his contributions to national educational development—particularly in the South-West region. Initially founded in 1963, the institution was designed to produce qualified educators ready for employment in teacher preparation programs and high schools. Before its recent transformation into a full-fledged university, the college was a first-class instruction institution.
Adeyemi Federal University of Education held its first orientation as a fully operational university on March 18 and 19, 2025, matriculating over 4,000 students. This institution towers among its contemporaries for its deep educational philosophy. For driven students seeking academic achievement, personal growth, and professional advancement, the university offers career-oriented courses aimed at social and economic development. These courses equip students with the knowledge and information needed to excel in their endeavours. Moreover, as shown by its code of behaviour, the university prioritizes morality and discipline, as students are expected to be law-abiding citizens. The school supports a safe and suitable learning environment while frowning at malpractices, cultism, indecent dressing, and hairstyle policies. Adeyemi Federal University of Education produces exceptional graduates ready to impact society by merging character development and academic excellence. This approach distinguishes the university and highlights its commitment to producing graduates who excel in their immediate workplace environment and benefit society.
Colleges of education provide teacher preparation courses to equip teachers with the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to effectively mentor and educate their charges by producing highly trained teachers who can inspire, encourage, and guide future teachers. By directing well-trained teachers, which is essential for the development of every civilisation, universities of education serve as agents to improve the quality of education. This is why Adeyemi Federal University of Education aims to alleviate the ongoing teacher shortage in the country with qualified professionals. Building teachers passionate about their respective fields is one of the institution’s foremost goals since it will help produce a skilled workforce ready to propel educational development and innovation.
Adeyemi Federal University of Education encourages innovation by applying new teaching methodologies and technologies. Clearly, at the front of academic research, this institution looks at innovative ideas to increase student learning outcomes and experiences. Similarly, this institution improves its quality and thereby increases the accessibility and efficacy of education through its innovative approaches and technical developments. Moreover, the institution provides educators a forum to exchange knowledge and develop personal relationships, promoting a creative culture of collaboration in education. By so doing, this institution of excellence has helped to create a more efficient and effective system, and therefore, it is addressing the challenges facing Nigerian educational systems.
Adeyemi Federal University of Education makes necessary provisions to help Nigerian human development. The institution provides a range of academic courses needed to meet the demands of students from many backgrounds. Its modern facilities and seasoned faculty provide students with a conducive environment where they will reach their best potential. Furthermore, the community involvement projects of the institution have assisted in advancing human development and education in the nearby areas. Adeyemi Federal University of Education enables people to obtain the knowledge, skills, and competencies required to thrive in their respective professions and significantly contribute to society by granting access to quality education. Consequently, the university’s policies are essential for the country’s human progress and educational expansion.
Undoubtedly, higher education affects societies beyond personal advantages to stimulate social mobility and economic development. Adeyemi Federal University of Education thus emphasises turning out graduates who, upon graduation, are likely to support social and economic growth. Furthermore, this institution encourages creativity, entrepreneurship, and technical development, which results in fresh methodologies and opportunities. Similarly, the institution promotes civic involvement, tolerance, and social cohesiveness, empowering people to make informed decisions and participate in democratic procedures. Countries reap long-term benefits through these investments, such as a low poverty rate and a more informed citizenry. Therefore, Adeyemi Federal University of Education acts as a knowledge dissemination and implementation centre.
Moreover, the institution significantly affects people and their cultural settings. It develops students who may acquire critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, empowering them personally. Adeyemi Federal University of Education also exposes its students to perspectives, cultures, and ideas to promote cultural understanding, respect, and trade. This university is one to search for if any institution helps students find direction and a reason for living. These abilities distinguish the university from its contemporaries. Since building a fair and prosperous society depends on education’s cultural and personal effects, Adeyemi Federal University of Education invests towards individuals and society’s future.
I want to emphasise how much the chance to participate in research and humanistic studies excites me and motivates me to assist significantly in my field of work as a scholar. Not only does it honour me much, but knowing that this prestigious university appreciates my work also enables me to be somewhat modest. Travelling down this road, I want to spread concepts supporting social justice and equality. I will also advocate these principles since everyone has the right to be treated with respect and dignity. My academic activities will allow me to keep tackling significant problems and contributing to creating a fair and equal society. Being a part of a society that respects my beliefs thrills me; hence, I am ready to continue working with an enthusiastic and passionate approach.