The Bishop, Diocese of Ijebu South-West, Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, Rt. Rev. Dr Babatunde Ogunbanwo has told graduating students of Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo that they will only be relevant in their life journey if they apply the knowledge they have gathered in the University to make a difference instead of making an impression.
Ogunbanwo, who is also a member of the governing council of ACU, spoke during the second edition of the University valedictory service held for its final-year students on Thursday. The valedictory was introduced by the present Vice-Chancellor of ACU, Prof. Timothy Adebayo, last year.
Present at the event were the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Adebayo; Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Muyiwa Popoola; The Registrar, Dr. J.E.T. Babatola; Bursar, Ayodele Olusanwo, Librarian, Dr. Mrs. Beatrice Fabunmi; the University chaplaincy; members of the academic and non-academic staff of the University; and parents.
In his sermon, Ogunbanwo told the students that graduating from a university is not the end of an academic journey but the beginning of a new challenge in life.
He said, “As you go into the world, it is time to make a difference and not showcasing an impression. God recognises that there is season for everything and every season has a purpose.
“For you, there was a season of admission, registration, matriculation, studying, examination and now graduating. Look back and thank God because there are some who started with you but they are not here today for one reason or the other.
“With the knowledge you have acquired from ACU, you are proficient and equipped with skills in different discipline and with this transition into new life, you need to make a difference.
“Changes, challenges and birth of new champions are the three major components that evolve after graduation. Do not let the environment and the society reduce your dream.
“Focus on the big future dreams, use your talents to attract employment instead of complaining about not being employed.”
The Bishop stated that arrogance and being rude are negative qualities that can ruin the future of promising students in life, enjoining them to uphold the good value that they have acquired at ACU in order to make valuable contribution to the society.
“Be obedient, run your own race, unlock your limitation and live your dreams,” he said.
While addressing the students on the challenges of graduating into new life, the Vice-Chancellor told them to be good ambassador of the University, while stating that the school had taken giant strides in structural and academic development since he took over three years ago.
He said, “When the valedictory was introduced last year, we did not know how the community would accept it but we thank God that it has been a success.
“When I joined ACU three years ago, I met good structure but we promised to improve on it and we have done so through the quality of what our teaching and non-teaching staff offer. We shall continue to improve on academic excellence and structural value of the University.
“To the students, I implore you not to take no for an answer. You are going to higher ground, be good ambassador of the University and God will uphold you as you go into the new world.”
During the event, the school management presented gifts of various items to the students and their parents.
Nigeria24
