The President of Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, Senator Bola Tinubu has reiterated that Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) has achieved fundamental milestones in the area of entrepreneurial advancement, playing a crucial role in Nigeria’s drive for job creation and economic growth.
He made the declaration during the 36th Convocation ceremony of YABATECH, held on Thursday.
The President opined that the College commitment to fostering entrepreneurial skills among its students has greatly enhanced the nation’s capacity for innovation and self-reliance.
The President who was ably represented by the Honourable Minister of State for Education Dr. Suwaiba Said Ahmed charged the graduating students to build on the strong foundation and leverage the acquired skills for professional growth and societal impact.
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The visitor charged the graduands that they are equipped not only to succeed but to lead and inspire, making meaningful contributions across various domains, including science, technology, commerce, environmental design, arts, agriculture and entrepreneurship.
He affirmed that YABATECH students have distinguish themselves in various fields, earning accolades for their achievements in academics, sports, arts and community service, and their dedication to research, innovation and service has brought about practical solutions to real world challenges and showcased their creativity and resourcefulness, also their involvement in volunteer work and cultural exchange has enriched not only on their personal experiences but also to strengthened the fabric of our society.
In His words” As you move forward into the next chapter of your lives, remember that learning is a lifelong journey. Continue to seek out new knowledge, embrace the challenges ahead, and strive for excellence in every endeavour.
“The world is full of opportunities, and you are well-prepared to explore and seize them. Let the education you have received here serve as a beacon, guiding you to make positive impact”.
He added that the skills and expertise gained at YABATECH are not just tools for personable achievement, but instruments for national growth and transformation.
In the course of the Convocation, two distinguished Nigerians, the wife of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Her Excellency, Senator Oluremi Tinubu and the Speaker of the Federal House of Representative, His Excellency, Honourable Tajudeen Abass, were conferred prestigious fellowship award of the College for their immense contribution to national development and to ordinary Nigerians.
In her acceptance speech, Senator Oluremi Tinubu considered the award as a challenge that will continue to inspire her efforts to uplift others for the greater good and development of our nation.
The first lady who was represented by Dr. Alawiye King said that education has always been the cornerstone of her belief in personal growth and development, she thereby donated Fifty Million Naira (N50,000,000,00) as an endowment fund for the overall best female graduating student.
The Speaker of the House was ably represented by Hon. Fuad Laguda thanked the College for the honour bestowed on him and for the rare privilege.
The Chairman Governing Council, Prof. Funsho Afolabi admonished the graduands that the convocation marks a significant milestone in their academic journey, and as they step into the world beyond YABATECH, they should remember that education is not a journey-but a destination, and a lifelong journey.
L-R: Rector, Yaba College of Technology, Dr Engr Ibraheem Abdul (standing) in a chat with Chairman, House Committee on Polytechnic and Higher Technical Education, Hon. Fuad Laguda, representing the Speaker, House of Representative, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abass and Hon. Wahab Alawiye King, Snr. Special Assistant to the President on Public Affairs and Strategy (Office of the First Lady), representing the First Lady of the Nation, Senator Oluremi Tinubu at the 36th Convocation Ceremony of Yaba College of Technology where the duo are being conferred with the prestigious Fellowship Award of the college.
“Embrace curiosity, innovation, and the pursuit of excellence. You are the future leaders of Nigeria’s technological and socioeconomic transformation, and we have every confidence that you will rise to the challenge of shaping the future of our dear nation. We entrust you with the responsibility of advancing knowledge, fostering innovation, and contributing to the progress of society. The skills, knowledge, and values you have gained here will serve you, well as you embark on your careers and continue to make meaningful contributions to your community”. He said.
The Rector of the College, Dr. Ibraheem Abdul pronounced that the convocation is a testament to hard work, resilience and vision, and the graduating students are the embodiment of institution’s legacy rooted in excellence, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of knowledge.
Dr. Abdul noted that as they are stepping out into a world that is rapidly changing, it is a world driven by technology, innovation, and an insatiable hunger for progress, and the world is not for them but it is challenging them, and he was sure that they are to conquer the world.
He said: “But remember success in the 21st century is not just about knowledge, it’s about adaptability, collaboration, and vision. Technology will evolve, industries will transform, and the problem of today will give way to the challenges of tomorrow.
“My charge to you is this: Be curious: Never stop learning, stay ahead of the curve by embracing new knowledge and perspectives. Be bold: Innovation demand courage. Do not fear failure, let it be the stepping stone to your greater achievements. Be ethical: In your quest for success, let integrity guide your actions. Use your talents to make the world not just smarter but better”.
The 7th Rector highlighted the challenges facing the 77 year old institution which are the construction of another building for the School of Arts, Design and Printing, construction of staff quarters to elevate staff welfare to bring about efficiency of staff and a befitting administrative building of the 21st century.
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