NEWS BULLETIN: OAU Postgraduate College Celebrates 60th Anniversary in Grand Style

The Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) Postgraduate College marked its 60th Anniversary with a colourful and memorable ceremony attended by top academic and administrative dignitaries. 

The event commenced with an opening remark by the Public Relations Officer, who acknowledged the presence of several distinguished guests including Vice Chancellors, Deputy Vice Chancellors, members of the board, and all Provosts in attendance. He also offered apologies for the slight delay in starting the programme.

Among the prominent guests recognized were representatives of the Vice Chancellor of Bowen University, Iwo; the Vice Chancellor of Ajibola Ajumobi University; as well as Architect Titilayo, CEO of Eden Architects. Others in attendance included notable scholars such as Prof. Gbenga Alebiowo, Prof. Adegbola (OAU Representative), Prof. Latiti Omoru (Dean of Technology), and Prof. Kolawole, alongside several members of the university's Board of Education.

Dr. Victor Olaleye, the 10th Provost of OAU’s Postgraduate College, delivered the welcome address. In his speech, he warmly welcomed all guests and shared a brief history of the college, noting that the foundation of the current structure was made possible through a generous donation of ₦10 million by Sen. Dr. Jimoh Ibrahim in 2013.

Bola Babalola, representing the Vice Chancellor of Obafemi Awolowo University, delivered the Vice Chancellor’s speech. She commended the Postgraduate College for organizing and sponsoring the anniversary celebration. She also expressed deep appreciation to Sen. Jimoh Ibrahim and Prof. Ajayi for their kind support in the growth and development of the college. A concise historical overview of the college’s journey — from conceptualization to realization — was also highlighted.

A goodwill message was delivered by Prof. Gbenga Alebiowo, who applauded the college’s achievements and the collaborative efforts that have sustained its growth over the years.

The keynote lecture that followed was described as insightful and impactful. The speaker highlighted the major accomplishments of the college, emphasizing the value of postgraduate education and expressing gratitude to all stakeholders, especially Sen. Jimoh Ibrahim, for their crucial roles in the college’s success story.

To cap off the ceremony, awards were presented to outstanding participants, including winners of the poster presentation competition. In the Faculty of Science category, the first prize winner received ₦150,000, while the second and third positions were awarded ₦100,000 and ₦50,000 respectively. The same structure applied to winners from the Faculty of Arts.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks from the Provost, bringing the anniversary celebration to a close on a note of gratitude and pride in six decades of academic excellence.