Confront Your Challenges With Courage, Redeemer’s University VC Charges Graduating Students

‎ Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo 

‎The Vice-Chancellor of Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun. State Professor Shadrach Akindele, has advised graduating students of the institution to confront squarely the challenges with courage and purpose, contending that the challenges ahead should be seen as “mission fields,” not reasons to give up.

‎Speaking during the university’s 17th convocation, tagged “the Indomitable Set of 2025”, Akindele said the institution had prepared them not just to get a job, but to make a difference.

‎According to him, “You are graduating into a world that is both exhilaratingly connected and deeply challenging. Do not flee from the challenges; embrace them as your mission field. Build your nation.”

‎The Vice-Chancellor reminded the graduates that the world does not need more spectators or critics, but “solution architects” with compassion, integrity, and vision.

‎“The name ‘Redeemer’s University’ on your certificate is a badge of honour that comes with great responsibility,” he declared.

‎Warning against pessimism about Nigeria’s future, Akindele encouraged the graduates to be active participants in nation-building. “do not fall for the seductive cynicism that says Nigeria is a lost cause. It is not. Nations are built by the dogged, determined efforts of their citizens, not magic or complaint. “

‎Also speaking, the Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC), Professor Abdullahi Yusufu Ribadu who was represented by Dr. Ayoteju Ojo, deputy director in the office of the executive secretary, urged the graduates to be job creators, not job seekers, and to use their education to promote ethical leadership and good governance.

‎Governor Ademola Adeleke, represented by his Special Adviser, Akin Ajetumobi, in his remarks congratulated the graduating students and their parents, urging them to live by the university’s values of integrity, excellence, and godliness, adding,” I encourage you to see challenges not as obstacles but as opportunities to serve. The future belongs to those who are ready to think creatively and responsibly and serve humanly and selflessly.”