Makinde, ex-UNILAG VC to grace Ibadan Polytechnic’s 39th convocation

Governor Seyi Makinde and the former Vice Chancellor of the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Prof. Oluwatoyin Ogundipe, are among the dignitaries expected at the 39th Convocation Ceremony of The Polytechnic, Ibadan.

Governor Makinde will visit the institution and be the special guest of honour at the event, which is scheduled for Friday, February 14, 2025. Prof. Ogundipe will deliver the convocation lecture, “Emerging Technological Advancement National Development and Growth in the 21st Century: Repositioning Nigerian Polytechnics.”

Speaking to journalists in Ibadan, the Acting Rector, Dr. Taiwo Lasisi, outlined activities leading up to the ceremony, including religious services, convocation lectures, and graduation rehearsals.

He said, “The institution has lined up several activities leading up to the convocation, which includes a Jumat service at the institution’s Central Mosque, a Christian service at The Lord’s Chapel, the institution’s official interdenominational church, and the convocation lecture, among others.”

He noted that certificates for graduands have been signed and are ready for collection immediately after the convocation ceremony.

Lasisi also said the institution is considering imposing fines for delay in collection of uncollected certificates by their owners.

The Acting Rector added that the convocation will feature the 2023/24 academic session graduates, as the institution no longer has a backlog of un-convocated students.

He reaffirmed the commitment of the institution towards academic excellence and discipline, stating that some students who were admitted alongside the current graduands were dismissed due to academic incompetence or misconduct after they were found wanting by the Students Disciplinary Committee (SDC).

“Certificates are not awarded based on academic performance alone; recipients must also be worthy in learning and character.”

Lasisi, however, thanked Governor Makinde for prioritizing education in the State, saying the governor has played a crucial role in supporting the institution, particularly in accreditation, re-accreditation, and the introduction of new programs.

He boasted the institution’s legacy of producing distinguished alumni, including the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi; the Iba of Kisi, Oba Aweda Lawal; and the newly crowned Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade.

“Aside from traditional rulers, our institution has also produced former governors, senators, lawmakers, captains of industries, and technocrats who continue to contribute to national development.”

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