As part of efforts to strengthen the relationship between the Town and Gown, the Oye Progressive Union, under the leadership of His Royal Majesty (HRM), Oba Michael Oluwole Ademolaju, hosted a grand reception in honour of the 5th Vice-Chancellor of Federal University Oye-Ekiti, Professor Joshua Olalekan Ogunwole, with renewed emphasis on deepening community -university collaboration.
The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ogunwole, in his address, empahsized the indispensability of a strong Town to Gown relationship, noting that the existence and success of the university are inherently tied to its host community.
He stressed that meaningful development within the institution must extend to the surrounding community, describing the town as the rightful “owner” of the gown.
He further emphasized that academic excellence without community impact remains incomplete, affirming that outreach and development initiatives must first benefit the immediate host environment.
According to him, sustained peace and mutual understanding are essential ingredients for growth, adding that no meaningful progress can occur in the absence of peace and tranquility.
Professor Ogunwole also highlighted the need for collective responsibility in driving institutional development, calling on stakeholders to work collaboratively towards advancing the university.
He reiterated his commitment to an inclusive leadership style rooted in accountability, humility, and service, assuring that his administration would be guided by principles of faithful stewardship.
The Vice-Chancellor disclosed plans for infrastructural expansion, including a phased development of residential buildings for principal officers to strengthen integration between the university management and the host community. He noted that this initiative would foster a stronger sense of belonging and bridge perceived gaps between both parties.
Earlier, in his welcome address, Ambassador Oguntuase Kayode, speaking on behalf of the Oye community, described the occasion as a moment of pride and honour. He commended the Vice-Chancellor’s humility and early engagement with the community, expressing confidence in his capacity to pivot the university to greater heights.
He reaffirmed the community’s commitment to sustaining a peaceful and enabling environment for academic activities, while emphasizing the long-standing partnership between Oye-Ekiti and the university.
He noted that the relationship would be further strengthened under the new administration for mutual socio-economic and environmental benefits.
In his remarks, the President of the Oye Progressive Union, Barrister Dare Owolabi, praised the prevailing harmony between the university and the host community. He attributed the progress recorded so far to effective collaboration and goodwill, describing the Vice-Chancellor’s early strides as a strong foundation for future achievements.
Barrister Owolabi also acknowledged the significant contributions of Senator Ayodele Arise in the establishment of the university, describing him as a pivotal figure in FUOYE’s history. He commended the institution’s management for fostering mutual understanding and maintaining open lines of communication with community stakeholders.
A senior academic and community leader, Professor Babatope Oguniyi, called for sustained dialogue and cooperation between the university and the Oye community. He emphasized the importance of aligning institutional goals with community aspirations, noting that such synergy would yield long-term benefits for both parties.
He encouraged continuous engagement through negotiation and consultation, adding that the community remains open to constructive partnerships that will enhance development across all sectors.
Also speaking, Senator Ayodele Arise reflected on the progress recorded in Oye-Ekiti over the years, attributing it to the leadership of the monarch and the cooperation of community leaders. He expressed optimism in the Vice-Chancellor’s leadership, describing him as experienced, humble, and deeply committed to community development.
He further urged the Vice-Chancellor to prioritize initiatives that would directly benefit the people, particularly in areas of employment, infrastructure, and capacity building.
He reaffirmed the community’s readiness to support the university in achieving its objectives.
The event reached a significant moment with the royal remarks of Oba Michael Oluwole Ademolaju, who expressed satisfaction with the progress observed within the university. He commended the Vice-Chancellor’s leadership qualities and likened his role to that of the biblical Joshua leading the Israelites to the promised land.
The monarch called for sustained cooperation between the university and the community, stressing that both entities share a common destiny.
He urged the Vice-Chancellor to build on his past achievements at BOWEN and ensure that his tenure leaves a lasting positive impact on both the institution and its host environment.
The colourful event was further enlivened by captivating cultural performances, including a vibrant dance display by students of the Theatre and Media Arts Department and a melodious presentation by the Performing Arts group, adding artistic flair to the ceremony.
See more photos below:
(Chinedu Okafor, FUOYE. Images: Chinedu Okafor)