TASUED Graduates 4,454 Students, 85-Year-Old Bags Ph.D. As Abiodun Urges Institution To Strengthen Research Collaborations

… Confer Honorary Doctorate Degrees Upon Four Distinguished Individuals

BY ABU-SATAR HAMED

IJEBU-ODE, OGUN STATE, NIGERIA – Tai-Solarin University of Education (TASUED) has marked a significant achievement by graduating 4,454 students during its 16th convocation ceremony.

Among the graduates is an 85-year-old octogenarian who earned a Ph.D., underscoring the university’s commitment to lifelong learning.

The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Oluwole Banjo, announced the distribution of degrees at the ceremony held on the Ijagun campus in Ogun State. 402 students of the institution received first degrees in various disciplines, 55 students received PGD, and 275 received Master’s Degrees, while 68 students graduated with Ph.D.

Prof. Banjo attributed the achievements of the graduating class to the university’s dedication to developing globally competent individuals.

He highlighted the institution’s mission of fostering academic excellence and holistic development in its students.

He said “We aim to develop individuals who are globally competent, both in teaching various subjects and in delivering the new entrepreneurship curriculum outlined in Nigeria’s education syllabus.

“A total of 4000 students received first degrees in College of Agriculture and Hospitality Management (COAHM), College of Humanities (COHUM), College of Science and Information Technology (COSIT), College of Social and Management Sciences (COSMAS), College of Specialized and Professional Education (COSPED) and College of Vocational and Technology Education (COVTED).

“4,454 graduands have been found worthy both in character and learning for the award of various categories of degrees and diplomas of the University.By the authority of the senate of this University, all deserving students will be awarded Bachelor’s Degrees, Postgraduate Diplomas, Master’s Degrees and Doctor of Philosophy,” he added.

In his keynote address, the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, emphasized the federal government’s dedication to repositioning Nigeria as a competitive force in the rapidly evolving global technological landscape.

The minister highlighted the importance of embracing technological advancements to foster economic growth and enhance the nation’s global standing.

His remarks underscored the government’s resolve to equip Nigeria with the tools and strategies necessary to thrive in the digital age.

Bosun Tijani’s address resonated with the theme of the convocation, reflecting the alignment between education, technological progress, and national development.

His call for a forward-looking approach reinforced the role of institutions like Tai-Solarin University of Education in preparing graduates to meet the challenges of a digital future.

The Minister said “The Federal government is work so hard to ensure that the nation is developed technology wise.

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has called on the Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED) to intensify partnerships with research institutions in areas that align with his administration’s goals of advancing mechanized agriculture and agro-industrial development.

Speaking at TASUED’s 16th convocation ceremony, Governor Abiodun, represented by his deputy, Mrs. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, emphasized the growing demand for educators and extension officers to support agricultural education and development initiatives.

He highlighted TASUED’s strategic position to contribute to these critical areas.

The governor’s charge reflects the state’s commitment to leveraging education and research to drive sustainable growth in agriculture and allied sectors, fostering economic prosperity for Ogun State and beyond.

He said: “I encourage the Tai Solarin University of Education to deepen collaborations with other universities and research institutions, particularly in areas that align with our focus on mechanized agriculture and agro-industrial development.

“The demand for educators and extension officers to support these initiatives is growing, and TASUED is well positioned to meet these needs.”

The remarkable achievement of the 85-year-old Ph.D. recipient was a focal point of the ceremony, symbolizing TASUED’s inclusivity and encouragement of education at all stages of life. This convocation marks the first time TASUED is graduating Ph.D. students, a significant milestone in the institution’s history.

The event was also used to confer honorary doctorate degrees upon four distinguished individuals, including Otunba Wasiu Jayeola Taiwo, Chairman and CEO of Wessy Group.

This recognition celebrates their outstanding contributions to their respective fields and significant impact on society.

Otunba Wasiu Jayeola Taiwo, known for his leadership in tailoring and fashion, will receive an Honorary Doctor of Science (D.Sc. Honoris Causa) in Clothing and Textiles.

His company, Wessy Creations, based in Abeokuta, Ogun State, is a leader in the fashion industry, boasting a large collection of advanced tailoring technologies and a commitment to training young tailors.

In addition to his work in fashion, Otunba Taiwo is the proprietor of Wessy College of Arts and Technology and serves as the National President of the Tailors Association of Nigeria (TAN).

The institution described Otunba Wasiu Jayeola Taiwo as a celebrated entrepreneur, distinguished business leader, Phillantropist, and Community Icon.

“Otunba Jayeola Wasiu is one of the pioneers in the textile and fashion industry. His world-class designs have garnered international acclaim, and his leadership within the industry is a testament to his dedication to excellence.

“Wessy Creation as he is fondly called is the Proprietor of Wessy College of Arts and Technology, Abeokuta, Ogun State and National President of the Tailors Association of Nigeria (TAN). Otunba Taiwo is to be awarded, a D.Sc. in Clothing and Textiles”, the release added.

Otunba Wasiu Taiwo also serves as Chairman/Chief Executive of entities such as Wessy Creation Ltd., Wessy College of Arts & Technology, Continental Suite & Hotels, Wessy Creation Fashion & Designs, Wessy Tailoring & Vocational Institute, and Chicken Continental.

Other honorary degree recipients include Prince Taiwo Olayinka Afolabi, founder and CEO of SIFAX Group, who will be honored with a D.Sc. in Entrepreneurship.

Prince Afolabi’s visionary leadership has propelled SIFAX Group to become a prominent conglomerate in sectors such as maritime, aviation, hospitality, and oil and gas.

His exceptional business acumen has earned him recognition as one of Nigeria’s most influential entrepreneurs.

Prince (Dr.) Oluyemisi Adedoyin Shyllon, an art collector and advocate for Nigerian arts, will be awarded a D.Sc. in Creative Arts. Shyllon, with a diverse professional background in engineering, law, and stockbroking, is a renowned figure in the global arts community and is recognized for promoting Nigerian art and culture.

Engr. Jubril Dotun Sanusi, an entrepreneur with a background in petroleum engineering, will be conferred with a D.Sc. in Hospitality Management. Sanusi’s ventures extend beyond oil and gas into education, agriculture, and hospitality, with Ilaji Hotels and Holiday Resorts standing as a testament to his success.

His ongoing support for TASUED’s student leadership programmes further exemplifies his commitment to education.

TASUED recognizes these honourees not only for their individual achievements but also for their contributions to society.

The conferral of honorary degrees underscores the University’s dedication to excellence and its admiration for those who inspire others through their work.

The well-attended event celebrated the academic accomplishments of students while reinforcing TASUED’s position as a premier institution for education and innovation in Nigeria.