The management of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) has showered praises on Professor Olubukola Oyawoye for her exceptional commitment, visionary leadership, and selfless service in the establishment of the NOUN Special Study Centre, Ilupeju-Ekiti.
DVC, Administration , Prof Shehu, Sir Dipo Ajayi and a former DVC, NOUN , Prof. Baswat cutting the ribbon
The commendation came during the official commissioning and launch ceremony of the newly completed special centre, which brought together dignitaries from diverse sectors, academia, and government institutions.
Speaking on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor of NOUN, Prof. Olufemi Peters, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Shehu Usman Adamu, described Prof. Oyawoye as a diligent academic whose expertise and dedication played a pivotal role in the realization of the centre. He noted that the establishment of the Ilupeju-Ekiti Centre aligns with NOUN’s vision of expanding access to quality higher education across Nigeria, particularly in communities that are underserved.
“Prof. Oyawoye has been instrumental in translating this vision into reality. Her professional guidance, hard work, and commitment to excellence reflect the spirit of NOUN and the ideals of service to humanity,” the VC said
Also speaking at the historic event , The Donor and Facilitator of the centre, Asiwaju Sir Dipo Ajayi, also expressed deep appreciation to Prof. Oyawoye for her dexterity and unwavering support throughout the project. According to him, the success of the centre was made possible through teamwork, dedication, and the invaluable consultancy services rendered by Prof. Oyawoye.
The Donor and Facilitator of the National Open University of Nigeria, Special Centre Ilupeju Ekiti, Asiwaju Sir Dipo Ajayi
Sir Ajayi further commended the management of NOUN for its collaboration and commitment to ensuring that the centre meets national standards, adding that the initiative was borne out of his desire to bring tertiary education closer to the people of Ilupeju-Ekiti and its environs.
In his remarks, the Registrar of the institution, Mr. Oladipupo Ajayi, expressed satisfaction with the level of readiness of both the centre and the host community. He affirmed that the facilities were up to standard and that the Ilupeju-Ekiti Study Centre was fully prepared to commence academic activities without delay.
The traditional ruler of the town, the Apeju of Ilupeju-Ekiti, Oba Sunday David, commended Sir Dipo Ajayi for his generosity and vision, describing the project as a blessing to the community. The monarch offered heartfelt prayers for the donor, appreciating his continued commitment to the progress and educational advancement of Ilupeju-Ekiti.
The commissioning ceremony attracted a distinguished array of guests, including Hon. Akin Rotimi Jr., the Spokesperson of the House of Representatives; the Vice-Chancellors of Ekiti State University (EKSU), Prof Babatola Ayodele and the Federal University of Technology and Environmental sciences, Prof Olugbenga Aribisala; and the Chief Medical Director of the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH), Dr Olabanji, Bishop Felix Ajakaye, Bishop Catholic Diocese of Ekiti, Global Evangelicalist Toyosi Omope,among several others.
The highlight of the event was the official ribbon-cutting ceremony performed by the DVC Administration, followed by a guided tour of the facilities within the centre, led by the consultant, Prof. Oyawoye. The guests expressed delight at the quality of infrastructure and the serene environment of the study centre, describing it as a model for other NOUN centres across the country.
The establishment of the NOUN Study Centre in Ilupeju-Ekiti marks a significant milestone in the expansion of educational opportunities for residents of Ekiti State. It is expected to provide flexible and accessible learning opportunities to working-class individuals, students, and professionals seeking to further their education without leaving their jobs or families.
The event concluded with songs of thanksgiving and celebration as the community expressed gratitude to God and all stakeholders who made the dream of having a federal tertiary institution in Ilupeju-Ekiti a reality.
