Former UNILAG VC urges educators to upskill in technology, celebrates Olatunji-Bello’s 60th

 

Prof. Oluwatoyin Ogundipe, former Vice Chancellor, University of Lagos has called on educators to embrace lifelong learning and upskill in technology integration.

He also urged them to embrace new pedagogy in education.

Ogundipe gave the advice while delivering a lecture at  a colloquium and book presentation organised by Mr Emmanuel Agida, the 156th ECOWAS Youth Ambassador, on Thursday, in Lagos.

The book, entitled “LASU Steward”,  is in honour of the Vice Chancellor of Lagos State University (LASU),  Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello at 60.

Ogundipe, at the lecture with the theme “Education; A Vision for Future”, said teachers and educators needed to embrace new knowledge.

He said they needed to do something and become active participants in shaping the future of education.

“We all need to become facilitators who nurture curiosity and critical thinking in learners.

“The vision for the future of education is not written by a single entity, but rather a collaborative effort involving various stakeholders.

“Education entails the transmission of knowledge, skills and character traits, and manifests in various forms,” he said.

The former UNILAG VC said that fundamental principle of education equality entailed ensuring  that every learner, regardless of background, had access to high quality education.

“In an effort to level the playing field in education, it recognises that children have a variety of needs and circumstances and works to give resources and support to meet those needs (Pires, 2023).

“Nigeria possesses all the attributes of a potentially great country. I believe that as a nation, we have the resources such as human capacity, funding  and infrastructure.

“With increased dedication of our leaders, committed citizenry and  hard work, the country can reach commanding height in the comity of nations,” Ogundipe said.

The don urged both the  federal and state governments to champion policies that would promote learning, accessibility, equity and quality delivery in education.

Ogundipe listed  factors that would drive future education to include communication, time management, conflict resolution, critical thinking and leadership.

Agida, on in his part, said that the future of  the Nigerian society was in the hands of  women and youth.

The youth ambassador said that Prof. Olatunji Bello, the LASU VC, who contested for the position three times, showed that women were resilient.

He said they had wisdom and vision to lead and transform the  world.

“It is our collective responsibility to continue to empower and support women in all spheres of life, ensuring they have equal opportunities to succeed and make impactful contributions.

“This is especially in a world where only a few women are privileged to climb the pedestal of leadership in our country.

“It is imperative to celebrate the legacies of the few female leaders to motivate the next generation of emerging female leaders,”Agida said.

In her remarks, Prof. Olatunji-Bello said that  the event was not just a celebration of  her achievements,  but also a commitment to the power of collaboration and community togetherness in the institution’s  academic pursuits.

She said she was proud to be part of an institution that valued knowledge sharing, intellectual curiosity and excellence.

“I wish to reiterate my commitment to quality leadership and my passion to see this great university attain its highest heights.

“Yes, we have achieved many milestones along the way over the last two and half years of our administration, but I stand here to assure all stakeholders that we are not slowing down anytime soon.

“Together with the support of everyone of us, we will achieve our vision,”she said.