The Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has rewarded the three best graduating students of the Gateway (ICT) Polytechnic, Saapade, with a sum of N2 million each for their outstanding performances in their academic endeavors.
While charging the new graduates of the institution to step into the world as problem-solvers, innovators, and change-makers, the overall best graduating students were Ifunanya Agu for the 2021/2022 session, Victor Omontuhen for the 2022/2023 session, and Suliat Yusuf as the overall best graduating student for the 2023/2024 session.
Governor Abiodun gave this charge in his address at the 5th Combined Convocation Ceremony of the ICT Polytechnic for the 2021/2022, 2022/2023, and 2023/2024 sessions.
The governor, represented by his deputy, Noimot Salako-Oyedele, admonished the graduands to note that the convocation marked the beginning of a new chapter in their lives, urging them to put to use the knowledge, skills, and values gained during their studies to build a virile society.
He reiterated that education remains an important cornerstone of his administration’s development agenda, underscoring its commitment to fostering an education system that would equip students with the necessary skills to excel in an ever-changing world.
Abiodun noted that the graduation ceremony signified that education is both a journey and a transformation, adding that education is not just about acquiring knowledge or earning certificates, but also about shaping minds, building character, and empowering individuals to make a positive impact on society.
The governor lauded the institution for its unparalleled commitment to academic excellence and the development of skilled professionals, with the aim of ensuring meaningful contributions not only to the state but to the country in general.
In his address, the Rector of the Polytechnic, Dr. Sanni Oseni, said the celebration of excellence culminated from years of hard work, dedication, and perseverance, noting that the graduands had successfully navigated the rigorous academic terrain and were now poised to embark on an exciting new chapter in their professional journey.
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Earlier in his lecture, the Guest Lecturer, Prof. Abayomi Fashina, spoke on the topic, “Polytechnic Education and the Future of Nigeria’s Economic Growth and Development.”
He expressed the need for the institution to be more innovative in their programs and to focus on entrepreneurial initiatives, especially in the area of turning Resources, Ideas, Skills, and Knowledge (RISK) into wealth.
Prof. Fashina noted that the polytechnic needed to create an industrial hub, network with telecommunication companies, and have students present ideas to lecturers.
He further urged the graduands to embrace challenges, stay committed to their vision, and always strive for excellence, as they are the future workforce of the nation.
In her valedictory remarks, the overall best graduating student, Miss Suliat Yusuf, expressed gratitude to the management, lecturers, and non-academic staff of the institution for nurturing and building excellent future leaders. She implored fellow graduands to continue being good ambassadors of the institution, strive for excellence, and set targets for their goals.
