VC charges students to focus on self-development, hardwork

The Vice-Chancellor, First Technical University, Ibadan, Prof Adesola Ajayi, has advised students to focus on developing themselves, work hard and pursue excellence.

Speaking at the 24th graduation ceremony of Jextoban Secondary School, held at its Ibafo Campus, Ogun State, Ajayi, who was represented by Deputy Vice Chancellor, Prof. Iyiola Tella, charged graduands to take their work seriously and build on what they learnt to become individuals with abilities to solve the country’s many challenges.

Ajayi also urged parents to develop a work plan on how to guide their children to handle life challenges and prepare them for today’s changing world.

He said: “We need to expose them to responsibilities and give them something to do at home. Let the children start locking the gate. Teach them to respect and value others.”

The VC said parents should set yardsticks to gauge their children’s integrity morally and ethically, in all ramifications.

The Chairman, Board of Governors, E. A. Ojo, called for a strong synergy between the school and the home, for parents to achieve the desired goal of raising godly and responsible leaders.

“There will be no progress if there is no discipline and respect for constituted authorities. If and when derogatory remarks about teachers or schools are made in the presence of children, they are bound to lose respect for those expected to guide and correct them.”

He further told the graduating students: “To succeed in life, you must have seen the need to dream big and work diligently towards your goals. Success is sweet, but it doesn’t come cheaply.”

The proprietress, Mrs A. A. Ojo, told the students that to overcome any situation, they have to work hard. “Never lose hope, remain steadfast and fervent in prayers.”

Principal, Mr Samson Oladeji, advised the students to render themselves for service to make the school stronger and sustainable.

The valedictorian, Ugochukwu Chidiebere, thanked the school for nurturing them and advised her colleagues to remain focused, saying hardwork never kills.