ASUU President a careless talker, should get educated – UNIOSUN VC responds Osodeke’s comment calling universities quack

The Vice-Chancellor, Osun State University (UNIOSUN), Professor Odunayo Clement Adebooye has described the president of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) Emmanuel Osodeke as a careless talker by saying universities that are not on strike are ‘quacks’.

Professor Adebooye said the state university has 481 full-time academic staff and among them, 387 are full-time Ph.D. holders, “this is not a quack.”

ASUU President, while featuring on Arise TV’s ‘The Morning Show’ on Thursday, called state universities; Osun State University, Kwara State University, Lagos State University and Kwara State University quacks.

According to him, “Kwara State University is not a member of ASUU. Osun State University was suspended from ASUU for misbehaviour. We are in court with LASU (Lagos State University) because they sacked all our executives more than five years ago. They were not part of this struggle.”

The UNIOSUN Vice-Chancellor responded to ASUU’s claim while answering questions from journalists at a press conference on Friday; announcing the approval and accreditation of the institution’s bachelor of medicine bachelor of surgery (MBBS) programme by the Nigerian Medical and Dental Council (NMDC).

It will be recalled that UNIOSUN started the MBBS programme with the approval of the National Universities Commission in 2012. The programme was discontinued shortly after due to some operational challenges which led to the transfer of the enrolled students to Ukraine by the State Government to complete their programmes.

Professor Adebooye noted that the NMDC not only approved the MBBS programme but also increased the admission quota for the programme from 50d to 100 students.

“Between January and August 2022, our academic members of staff have demonstrated the “can do spirit” in research and they have excelled in this world of stiff but healthy competition for research grants. I am glad to inform you we have six grants amounting to about US$300,000 in the last 8 months,” he said this in his address during.

Meanwhile, while reacting to the ASUU president’s statement, the Vice-Chancellor said Osun state university takes very serious exceptions for having mentioned the institution as a quack university and demanded the withdrawal of the statement from Professor Osodeke.

According to him, the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike (MOUA), where ASUU President teaches, does not have UNIOSUN’s achievements.

“ASUU President should go and check my profile, I cannot preside on quack university. He has expressed his opinion and that is his, the University he teaches does not have our achievements.

“He was here this year and commended the quality of what he saw here, the infrastructure, only a few universities. Osun state university takes very serious exceptions for having mentioned the institution as a quack university.

“He shouldn’t talk about what he doesn’t know if he wants to continue being a true professor. A true professor finds facts and bases of whatever they say, he should get educated, I challenge him to get educated.

“Referring UNIOSUN as a quack university is a careless statement and not expected from ASUU President who is a professor; who must not make a statement without facts.” the VC said.

Osun State University Appoints Professor Afeez Bello as Acting Vice-Chancellor

Osogbo, Osun State – In a move to ensure administrative stability and continuity, Osun State University (UNIOSUN) has announced the appointment of Professor Afeez Bello as the acting vice-chancellor. The decision comes after a period of controversies surrounding the selection process for a substantive vice-chancellor and the imminent conclusion of the outgoing vice-chancellor’s term.

Professor Bello, a distinguished scholar in geo-technical engineering, will assume his new role on Friday, November 5. With an impressive academic background and extensive experience, he is well-positioned to lead UNIOSUN during this transitional phase.

The pro-chancellor and chairman of the governing council, Yusuf Alli, expressed the university’s need for an acting vice-chancellor due to ongoing litigation surrounding the selection process. The appointment aims to prevent any administrative vacuum within the institution. UNIOSUN remains committed to upholding the rule of law and will adhere to the court’s verdicts.

Professor Afeez Bello, born on October 11, 1976, originates from Ilobu, the headquarters of Irepodun Local Government Area in Osun State. He completed his secondary education at Ilobu Secondary Commercial Grammar School in 1993. His academic journey led him to Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), where he pursued Civil Engineering. He furthered his studies at the University of Ibadan, obtaining a Master’s certificate in Civil Engineering in 2005. In 2010, he received his PhD in Civil Engineering from Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria.

Prior to his appointment as the acting vice-chancellor, Professor Afeez Bello served as the deputy vice-chancellor in charge of administration and development at UNIOSUN. With his broad expertise and experience, he is equipped to guide the university through this transition period. His election as the deputy vice-chancellor by the university senate further reflects his scholarly achievements and competence.

The selection process for a substantive vice-chancellor encountered disputes over the criteria set forth in the vacancy advertisement. Concerns were raised by various stakeholders, including the Osun State chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association, regarding the strict conditions that some deemed incongruent with the university’s existing laws and regulations. As a result, UNIOSUN temporarily suspended the selection process, awaiting the court’s final decision.

Professor Afeez Bello’s appointment as the acting vice-chancellor of Osun State University signifies the institution’s commitment to maintaining stability and providing uninterrupted leadership. As UNIOSUN continues its mission of academic excellence and community development, Professor Bello’s expertise and vision will play a crucial role in guiding the university toward a bright future.

Stay tuned for further updates on the developments at Osun State University as it strives for progress and maintains its reputation as a center of learning and innovation.

Oriola Oladipupo Emerges President as UNIOSUN Alumni Association elects new executives

On Saturday, February 20, 2021, the Osun State University Alumni Association held its election for the new National leadership. The election took place at the Olagunsoye Oyinlola Auditorium on the Osogbo Campus. Oriola Oladipupo Kabir emerged as the President, securing 46 votes. His competitors, Adetunji Idris Tunde and Balogun Sodiq Olanrewaju, received 14 votes and 5 votes respectively.

Oriola expressed his gratitude to his predecessor for their efforts in advancing the association and called upon the members to support the elected executive members in their mission to enhance the association’s standing among other Nigerian university alumni bodies. He also acknowledged the support of the school management and the state government in granting them autonomy to operate.

The newly elected President promised to ensure an inclusive government. The Vice-Chancellor of Osun State University, Professor Labode Popoola, emphasized the significant role played by the alumni in any reputable institution. He urged them to promote the association by avoiding corruption, nepotism, and campus politics. Professor Popoola further shared that the University has expanded its degree programs, offering 71 undergraduate and 48 postgraduate programs across all faculties, all of which are accredited by the NUC and relevant professional bodies. He also mentioned ongoing efforts to digitize the academic transcript application process for the benefit of the alumni.

Here is the list of the newly elected National Executives:

President – Oriola Oladipupo Kabir Vice President – Oyeyemi Alimat Olabisi General Secretary – Abubakre Olalekan Abdulbasit Treasurer – Adejumo Joseph Itunu Financial Director – Gbadamosi Abdulwahab Abiodun Assistant Financial Director – Olukade Ahmed Public Director – Ajani Adedeji Ahmed Social Director – Oladimeji Adetutu Ifeade Legal Adviser – Oyesowo David Tobi

The swearing-in ceremony for the new executives was scheduled to take place by April 2021.

UNIOSUN holds virtual convocation for over 1000 graduates

Osun State University (UNIOSUN) recently made history (21st September, 2020) by hosting its 9th convocation ceremony virtually, becoming the first Nigerian public tertiary institution to conduct an online convocation. Following the earlier online matriculation for fresh students, the virtual convocation celebrated the achievements of 1,946 graduates.

During the momentous event held via Zoom, the Vice-Chancellor, Labode Popoola, emphasized that the university had set a new record in Nigeria by organizing the first-ever virtual convocation in a public institution. Notably, 35 students graduated with First Class honors, showcasing their exceptional academic prowess.

Yusuf Ali, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman Governing Council of UNIOSUN, urged the government to prioritize adequate funding for Information and Communication Technology (ICT) development in schools. He highlighted the university’s commitment to ICT infrastructure development on all campuses, which facilitated the successful virtual convocation.

Governor Gboyega Oyetola, the visitor to the school, delivered an inspiring speech, challenging universities across the country to lead society in overcoming the challenges posed by the global COVID-19 pandemic. He emphasized the need for graduands to harness their entrepreneurial skills and competencies to become job creators and contribute to solving the unemployment crisis.

Governor Oyetola acknowledged the graduands as products and ambassadors of innovation and entrepreneurship, aligning with the university’s focus on generating innovative thinkers. He urged them to embrace the “new normal” brought about by the pandemic and be proactive in finding solutions to societal problems.

As the world transitions from physical to virtual engagement, the governor emphasized the importance of UNIOSUN continuing to foster creativity and innovation, serving as a torchbearer for both the industry and society.

The virtual convocation served as a testament to UNIOSUN’s adaptability and commitment to providing quality education amidst challenging circumstances, while also equipping its graduates with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

Uniosun Council Inaugurates Advancement Board & renews The Tenure Of Kayode Sofola (SAN) Led Advancement Board.

Recently, Mallam Yusuf Ali, the Chairman of the Governing Council of Osun State University, inaugurated the 2020 Advancement Board of the University. The inauguration took place during a virtual Council meeting attended by members of the governing council and the advancement board. The previous advancement board, led by Kayode Sofola, SAN, was inaugurated in June 2016 and their tenure ended in June 2020.

Malam Yusuf Ali, the Chairman of the Council, praised the diligent service and accomplishments of the Kayode Sofola, SAN-led advancement board in the development of Osun State University. He expressed gratitude on behalf of the Visitor (the executive Governor of the State of Osun, Mr. Gboyega Oyetola), the Chancellor (Mrs. Folorunso Alakija), and the Governing Council. Malam Ali emphasized that the board’s work not only benefits the University but also contributes to the progress of the entire state.

He reminded the board members of their vision, which is to seek support from individuals, private organizations, and potentially the government, in order to assist the University in fulfilling its mission. He highlighted the importance of raising funds for projects such as a world-class teaching hospital, to alleviate the burden on the Chancellor. The Chairman encouraged the board to work towards achieving these goals and fulfilling the University’s mission.

Mr. Kayode Sofola, the Chairman of the advancement board, expressed gratitude on behalf of the entire board for the trust and belief placed in them by the Chairman of the Council, the Chancellor, and all Council members. He stated that they accepted another tenure due to their belief in the University’s progress and growth. He mentioned various achievements, including the University being recognized as the least corrupt state University in Nigeria and the ongoing construction of a world-class teaching hospital. Mr. Sofola acknowledged the challenging economic situation but emphasized the importance of education, particularly in the field of technology. He pledged the board’s commitment to realizing the vision and mission of the advancement board.

Other members of the Kayode Sofola, SAN-led board include: Dr. Segun Aina, OFR, FCIB; Chief Atilade Adebowale; Sir Demola Aladekomo; Professor Wahab Egbewole, SAN; Professor Abeke Omotoso; Dr. Adunola Adepoju; Dr. Taofeek A. Owoseni; Mr. Sodiq Balogun; Professor Janet O. Olaitan, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration and Development); Mr. Gafar Shittu, Registrar; Mr. Bolarinwa Feruke, Bursar; and Mr. Marcus Awobifa, Director of the Advancement Office.

Aregbesola sacks Okesina as UNIOSUN VC

The Osun State Governor, Mr. Rauf Aregbesola, has fired the Vice Chancellor of the Osun State University, Prof. Bashiru Okesina.

The governor announced Okesina’s removal in a White Paper released on the crisis rocking the university, through his media aide, Mr. Semiu Okanlawon.

Aregbesola also accepted the recommendation for the dissolution of the Governing Council headed by Prof. Gabriel Olawoyin (SAN) but the council will still be in place until the process of the appointment of a new vice chancellor of the institution is completed.

First Set of First-Class Graduates Employed by UNIOSUN

In a significant development, Osun State University held its convocation ceremony on May 21, 2011, marking a momentous occasion for the institution. During this event, a total of 371 students from five of the university’s eight faculties and 5 campuses received their well-deserved degrees. Among the graduating students, nine achieved first-class honors, 168 earned second-class upper honors, 183 received second-class lower honors, and 11 obtained third-class honors.

Osun State University has now recently made a noteworthy announcement. The institution proudly appointed eight exceptional scholars as Graduate Assistants, recognizing their outstanding academic records and achievements during the convocation ceremony. The appointed Graduate Assistants are as follows:

  1. Mr. Adams Kashif Ololade
  2. Mrs. Adekunle Adejoke O (Nee Salami)
  3. Mr. Durowoju Olufemi Sunday
  4. Miss Fakanbi Oyepeju Ibukunoluwa
  5. Miss Odesanmi Oluwatosin Rachael
  6. Mr. Oladeji David Oluwayanmi
  7. Mrs. Olojido Oluwatoyin Esther
  8. Mr. Omodunbi Olumide O

Osun State University commends these accomplished individuals for their appointment as Graduate Assistants, recognizing their academic excellence and commitment to their studies. This appointment underscores the institution’s dedication to nurturing exceptional talent within its academic community. As these scholars join the university’s faculty, they are expected to contribute their expertise and knowledge across various Colleges, further enriching the academic environment of Osun State University.

AS PROFESSOR BASHIR ADEKUNLE OKESINA BECOMES UNIOSUN VICE-CHANCELLOR

There is no disputing the fact that the paths leading to the appointment or re-appointment of a Vice Chancellor in most Nigerian universities today is highly contentious and not without its ups and downs. The Rivers State University of Science and Technology (RSUST), Port Harcourt is an obvious example of a university enmeshed in crisis over the re-appointment of Prof. Barineme Fakae as the Vice Chancellor of the institution. Many others abound which not only portends danger for the academic sustainability of our universities but also affects innocent students who are made to bear the brunt of the face-off between government on the one hand and the academic unions on the other. It is therefore, the reason our academic institutions must be devoid of political interference, else the crisis of academic scholarship and dwindling fortunes of Nigerian university education may be a major issue we may not be able to contend with for years to come.

Be that as it may, the appointment of a new V.C for Osun State University (UNIOSUN) has been a long one. Since the tenure of its pioneer V.C came to an end last year and the appointment of a new one due by August 1, 2012, the situation has been one of anxiety and hope that the university will be put on the right track by the Visitor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola. In fact, the absence for long of a new Governing Council coupled with its late inauguration late last year by the Osun State Government raised a lot of pertinent questions as to what direction UNIOSUN was taking. One of such was how quickly the appointment of a new V.C who will steer the wheel of the 5 year old university will come.

The Governing Council led by Professor Gabriel Olawoyin (SAN) was saddled with the responsibility of performing the selection process and shortlisting of candidates for the much coveted V.C seat. The process was, however, not without controversy as series of issues by stakeholders within and without the university were raised, most especially on the processes that led to the shortlisting of seven candidates who applied for the V.C seat. Some of the candidates who were not shortlisted were believed to have accused the Governing Council of unfairness and non-compliance with due process. They hinged their accusations on the premise that there had been subtle attempts to manipulate Osun State University Law 2006 to favour some vested interests within and without the university. They noted that the UNIOSUN Law 2006 was clear on issues pertaining to the selection and final appointment of the V.C which they argued ought to be upheld and respected by Council for the sake of justice, fairness and sustainability of the new university.

Despite the intricacies and intrigues surrounding the selection process, the Professor Gabriel Olawoyin-led Governing Council eventually shortlisted three candidates. Prof. Oladiran Famurewa – a Prof. of Microbiology, Prof. Bashir Adekunle Okesina – a Prof. of Chemical Pathology and Prof. Funmi Togonu-Bickersteth made the list. Having presented the names to the Visitor of the University, Governor Rauf Aregbesola approved the appointment of Prof. Bashir Adekunle Okesina as the second Vice- Chancellor of Osun State University, Osogbo.

Prof. Okesina, a ChemicalPathologist, was born on October 11, 1954. He graduated with Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) in 1980 from the University of Lagos in 1980. He became a Fellow of Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria in 1988 and Fellow of West African College of Physicians in 1989. He did clinical attachment at the Institute of Neurology Queen Square, London and East Surrey Hospital between 1987 and 1988. From 1991 to 1993, he was a Commonwealth Medical Research Fellow in Clinical Endocrinology at Hammersmith Hospital and Royal Postgraduate Medical College in London. He was appointed Lecturer I at the University of Ilorin in 1989, Reader in 1994 and Professor of Chemical Pathology in 2000. He was appointed Consultant, Chemical Pathology to the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital in 1989. Prof. Okesina became Head of Department in 2000-2004 and Dean, Faculty of Basic Medical Science, College of Medicine, University of Ilorin from 2004 – 2007. In 2007, he was appointed foundation Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Osun State University from 2007 to 2011. Prof. Okesina has many scholastic publications in local and international Medical Journals. He received International Federation of Clinical Chemistry International Bursary Award 1996; Commonwealth

Medical Fellowship Award 1991; National Honours Award (Post NYSC) 1982; Oyo State Merit Award scholarship for University Education 1976 and Odo-Otin Local Government Scholarship for Secondary Education in 1968. He has supervised several Fellowship Dissertations and has over seventy publications.

Prof. Okesina is coming with a huge wealth of experience having served as a pioneer V.C of UNIOSUN and seen it all since 2007 when the university began its academic session.

The Professor Gabriel Olawoyin-led Governing Council with this appointment has won a major coup by the way it went all out in ensuring that persons who are very knowledgeable about the culture of the university, its organisation, administration and aspirations expressly hold the role of the V.C. For those who may not be in the know, since the tenure of the Pioneer Council of the university led by Professor Peter Okebukola ended few years back, the university has not been the same again. The vision of the founding fathers to make the university world class is fast dwindling because those who matter in the continuity of this dream have been displaced and replaced with individuals who do not share the same dreams as its original founders.

The appointment of Prof. Okesina is no doubt a good choice and it is hoped that he will take the university towards greatness. His leadership skills, administrative acumen and his ever listening ears is needed at this critical period in the history of the university in making it once again a world class institution it prides itself as. UNIOSUN has come to stay and is fast becoming a major player among comity of vibrant and academically viable universities in Nigeria. On behalf of all the students, staff and alumni of the university, we congratulate Prof. Okesina on his well-deserved appointment. We also use this opportunity to wish him a wonderful tenure in office.

Osun State University, UNIOSUN, Celebrates Maiden Convocation Ceremony, Honors Achievements of Graduating Students

Osogbo, Osun State – Six years since its establishment, Osun State University (UNIOSUN) celebrated a momentous milestone as it held its first convocation ceremony last Saturday. The event marked the graduation of students from five of the university’s eight faculties, with notable achievements in various academic disciplines.

A total of 371 students received their degrees during the ceremony, which was attended by dignitaries, faculty members, proud parents, and well-wishers. Among the graduates, nine students were awarded first-class honors, while 168 achieved second-class upper honors. Additionally, 183 students received second-class lower honors, and 11 students attained third-class honors.

The convocation speech was delivered by Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, the state governor, who extended his heartfelt congratulations to the graduating students, their parents, and the entire institution. Governor Aregbesola commended the students for successfully completing their academic journey and emphasized the importance of both knowledge and character development.

In line with its commitment to providing ongoing support to its alumni, Professor Sola Akinrinade, the university’s vice-chancellor, highlighted the establishment of the Graduate Support Office. This office, established a few months ago, serves as a centralized hub for coordinating support and resources for UNIOSUN’s graduates. It aims to assist them in their post-graduation endeavors and foster a strong network of successful alumni.

During the convocation ceremony, a special recognition was given to the Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade, who was bestowed with an honorary Doctor of Letters degree by the university. The esteemed monarch received this honor in recognition of his outstanding contributions to society and his exemplary leadership.

Osun State University, which received its license from the National Universities Commission (NUC) on December 21, 2006, has grown from its inception and is making significant strides in the Nigerian higher education landscape. The institution was conceived by the previous administration of Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola and nurtured by a team led by the former Executive Secretary of the NUC, Prof. Peter Okebukola.

The successful convocation ceremony reflects the dedication and hard work put in by the university’s faculty, staff, and students. As Osun State University continues to advance its academic programs and provide quality education, it remains committed to shaping the future of its graduates and contributing to the socio-economic development of the state and the nation as a whole.