The Chancellor of Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology (BOUESTI), Wole Olanipekun, has called on stakeholders to strengthen partnerships with the institution as part of efforts to accelerate its growth and transformation.
Speaking during the university’s second convocation ceremony in Ikere Ekiti on Saturday, Olanipekun emphasised that education requires collective responsibility, driven by collaboration between government, communities, private organisations, and individuals.
A total of 1,645 students graduated at the ceremony, with 60 earning first-class honours, 563 securing second-class upper division, 854 graduating with second-class lower division, and 163 in the third-class category. Exceptional students were also recognised for their academic performance.
Addressing the graduates, Olanipekun described their degrees as more than academic credentials, urging them to see their achievements as a responsibility to contribute meaningfully to society through knowledge and character.
He also made a strong appeal for increased stakeholder involvement, noting that the university must be positioned not just to endure but to flourish. According to him, strategic partnerships would help expand the institution’s capacity and secure a sustainable future.
The Chancellor commended Biodun Oyebanji for prioritising education, while urging the state government to fulfil its commitment to improving road infrastructure within the university.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Governing Council, Dipo Aina, highlighted the institution’s transition from its formative stage to a phase of consolidation and expansion. He noted progress in governance, academic development, infrastructure, and institutional reforms, while acknowledging ongoing challenges such as funding gaps and capacity limitations.
In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor, Babatunde Omojola, described BOUESTI as one of the fastest-growing state universities in Nigeria. However, he pointed out that the rising student population has strained hostel facilities, calling for urgent government intervention to improve accommodation and student welfare.
Representing the governor, the Secretary to the State Government, Habibat Adubiaro, reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to supporting the university. She encouraged the graduating students to embrace innovation, entrepreneurship, and problem-solving as they step into the next phase of their lives.
