NSE and COREN induct 381 OOU engineering graduates
A Call to Action for New Engineering Graduates
The Vice Chancellor of Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago Iwoye, Prof Ayodeji Agboola, addressed the 381 engineering graduates during their induction into the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) and the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN). He urged them to prioritize integrity, embrace innovation, and collaborate with experienced professionals to shape a new Nigeria.
Prof. Agboola emphasized that engineering plays a crucial role in shaping the future of any nation. He highlighted the importance of dedication and the application of skills to build stronger infrastructure in the country. This call was made during the 11th induction ceremony held at the university’s College of Engineering, Ibogun in Ifo Local Government area of Ogun State.
Engineering, according to Agboola, is the backbone of various sectors, including infrastructure development, technological advancement, and healthcare. He described Nigeria as being at a critical juncture in its development and expressed confidence in the graduates’ ability to be the architects of this new era.
The VC noted that the decision of the graduate engineers to be inducted into NSE and COREN is more than just a formal procedure. It is an affirmation of their commitment to uphold the highest standards of ethics, professionalism, and technical excellence.
While charging the graduates, Agboola said, “You are not just members of an institution; you are custodians of the future, and your responsibilities go beyond merely solving problems – you are to innovate, inspire, and transform the world around you.”
He added that today is a day of celebration, but also a day of reflection. The path to becoming a licensed engineer requires continuous learning and growth. This journey will demand resilience, creativity, and a strong commitment to lifelong development.
As the graduates step into the next phase of their careers, they should remember that the road ahead will present both challenges and opportunities. How they respond to these challenges will define their success and impact on society.
Agboola urged all newly inducted engineers to remain focused and diligent, continually striving to improve themselves. He stated that the world is full of opportunities waiting to be unlocked by their talent, innovation, and drive.
The Vice Chancellor praised COREN and NSE for their unwavering commitment and leadership in strengthening excellence in engineering. He encouraged them not to rest on their laurels.
Agboola also thanked parents, families, and lecturers for supporting the graduands in achieving this career milestone.
Enhancing the Teaching and Learning Environment
Speaking earlier, the Dean, Faculty of Engineering, OOU, Ibogun campus, Prof Olufunke Akinkurolere, lauded the university management under the Vice Chancellor for its support in constructing a 750-seater lecture theatre for the faculty. She stated that this intervention will significantly enhance the teaching and learning environment, accommodate the growing student population, and strengthen the faculty’s capacity to produce high-quality engineering graduates for national development.
Prof Akinkurolere specifically praised Prof Agboola for his confidence in the faculty by allowing one of his biological children, who was among the newly inducted engineers, to be enrolled in the faculty.
While rejoicing with the graduands, Prof Akinkurolere urged them to see their induction into NSE and COREN as a great responsibility that they can never afford to betray. She explained that the knowledge they have acquired is only the foundation, and the real learning begins now as they step into the professional world.
She encouraged the graduates to remain committed to continuous professional development, embrace teamwork, and uphold the ethical standards of NSE and COREN at all times. Let integrity guide their decisions, let excellence define their work, and let service to humanity remain the central purpose of their profession.
Keynote Address and Induction Ceremony
Ademola Olorunfemi, the keynote speaker at the event, urged engineering graduates to prioritize integrity and strong character. He emphasized that while top academic grades may open doors, they are insufficient to keep them in the job. Speaking on “Beyond Degree: Building A Sustainable Career in Engineering,” Olorunfemi, a past national president of NSE, urged the newly inducted engineers to be teachable and adaptable, leveraging technology while continuing to acquire relevant skills to sharpen their competencies and carve a niche for themselves.
The National President of NSE, Ali Rabiu, represented by Seyi Odunuga, Chairman NSE, Mowe branch, alongside Dr Abayomi Layeni, NSE branch chairman, Ilaro, performed the induction of the graduands into the NSE. Similarly, Prof. Sadiq Abubakar, COREN President, represented by Dr. Folasade Adebayo, COREN board member for the South-West, conducted the induction of the engineering graduates into the regulatory body.
Celebrating Academic Excellence
A total of 5,808 graduates were conferred degrees at the university’s 35th convocation, held recently on the campus in Ago Iwoye. Among them, 147 earned First Class, 2,051 were in the Second Class Upper Division, 2,927 in the Second Class Lower Division, 571 had Third Class Degree, 26 had a Pass Grade, while 86 were unclassified, being graduates from the medical programme.
Prof Agboola highlighted that the university, ranked 16th among 321 universities in the country, has sustained its 100% accreditation of its courses and added nine new programmes, comprising seven undergraduate and two postgraduate.
The Vice Chancellor also announced the appointment of three Professors Emeritus for the university, and they are Prof Adewale Sule-Odu, a Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Prof Adetola Olatunji, former Provost, Obafemi Awolowo College of Health Sciences, OOU and a notable columnist with The Punch newspapers and a Professor of Economics, Sheriffdeen Tella.
