Oyo Scholars Congress 2024: A Celebration of Excellence and Ambition

On December 30th, 2024, scholars and academics from the four local governments of Oyo Federal Constituency gathered at Caroline Odunola Hall, Enterprise Republic, Oyo, for the inaugural Oyo Scholars Congress. Themed “Ajisebi Oyo Laari: Restoring the Heritage of Excellence, Innovation, and Ambition,” the event brought together a vibrant mix of established scholars, early-career academics, and students for an engaging day of dialogue, networking, and celebration.

The event began with a welcome by the conveners, Professor Seun Kolade of Sheffield Business School and Professor Segun Oguntunji of Bowen University, who set the tone by emphasizing the importance of collective effort in revitalizing the scholarly heritage of Oyo Federal Constituency. In his remarks, Professor Kolade described the event as a “landmark occasion” and underscored its transformative potential. He noted that the Congress would launch “new frontiers of opportunities underpinned by collaboration and forward-thinking innovation to move our community forward.”

Academic elder statesman, Professor Ayo Ogunkunle, former Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, delivered the Chairman’s opening remarks, urging participants to embrace excellence and innovation as guiding principles.

The keynote address, delivered by Professor Adeniyi Gbadegesin, former Vice-Chancellor of LAUTECH, was a highlight of the day. In his speech, Professor Gbadegesin celebrated Oyo’s rich intellectual and cultural heritage while challenging the audience to uphold and advance this legacy through groundbreaking research and impactful teaching. He highlighted the Congress’s role in fostering mentorship, promoting collaboration, and advocating for academic progress within the constituency.

A dynamic panel discussion followed, featuring distinguished scholars including Professor Adeolu Adewuyi (University of Ibadan), Professor Tope Oyedepo (Adeleke University, Ede), Professor Sarafadeen Abdulkareem (Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta), and Professor Adenike Ayoade (LAUTECH). The panel, moderated by Dr Rasheed Garuba and Dr Shakirat Adesola, explored critical topics such as research funding, mentorship, and the role of scholars in public service.

Reverend Dr. Dele Kolade presented an overview of the Scholars’ Database Project, an initiative designed to foster collaboration and resource sharing among members. This was followed by a session on research funding and scholarship opportunities, led by Mr. Akintunde Babatunde and Professor Kola Abimbola, who shared actionable strategies for securing grants and advancing academic careers.

Updates from higher education institutions in Oyo State were presented, showcasing ongoing efforts to enhance education and research. The event concluded with a recognition segment, where Professor Sunday Okeniyi, Vice-Chancellor of Atiba University, celebrated the achievements of distinguished scholars, recently appointed into new roles: Professor Ademola Ojekunle, newly appointed Judge of the High Court, and Professor Daud Araromi, recently appointed as Deputy Vice Chancellor of Ladoke Akintola University of Technology. A special lifetime recognition was also given to Dr Sokan Ojebode, the Founder of Atiba University, for his longstanding and high-impact contribution to education in Oyo Federal Constituency.

The Congress was more than a meeting; it was a call to action for scholars of Oyo heritage to unite, collaborate, and strive for excellence. As Professor Gbadegesin aptly noted, “Our forefathers laid the foundation of excellence and ambition; it is our duty to build upon it and pass it on to future generations.”

The 2024 Oyo Scholars Congress set a remarkable precedent, laying the groundwork for a thriving scholarly community dedicated to driving innovation and impacting society.