Olajumoke Abimbola Morenikeji, Professor of Parasitologist and newly inaugurated Vice Chancellor, KolaDaisi University, Ibadan, has urged universities in the Country to always produce innovators rather than imitators, creators rather than consumers of knowledge, ethical leaders rather than merely degree holders, and entrepreneurs rather than job seekers alone.
In her inaugural address, in which she outlined a dynamic and transformative vision for the institution, Morenikeji posited that “Artificial intelligence is transforming industries. Climate change is reshaping economies. Global health challenges continue to test our resilience. Digital technologies are changing how knowledge is created and shared. Employers increasingly seek graduates who combine technical competence with creativity, adaptability, ethical leadership, and emotional intelligence.
“These realities demand that universities rethink how they teach, how they conduct research, how they engage society, and how they prepare students for an uncertain but opportunity-filled future.”
The first female VC of the institution and a distinguished conservation scientist, accomplished university administrator, inspirational teacher, institution builder, and transformational academic leader stated that ” Increasingly, employers seek graduates who can solve problems, communicate effectively, work collaboratively, think critically, adapt quickly, and create value.
“Universities have always occupied a unique place in the progress of civilisation. Every great society has been shaped by institutions that value knowledge, nurture innovation, and develop leaders of character.
“Universities preserve the wisdom of the past while creating the discoveries that shape the future. They challenge assumptions, expand human understanding, and provide solutions to society’s most pressing problems.”
At the colourful event held at the institution’s campus along Ibadan-Oyo road drew a massive turnout of academic dignitaries, traditional rulers, captains of industry, and government officials to witness the official handover of mantle of leadership.
The ceremony kicked off with the vibrant academic procession of the university senate, governing council, and visiting vice-chancellors, garbed in richly colored academic regalia.
Following the opening remarks, Adeniyi Osuntogun, Professor, the Chairman of the Governing Council formally presented Olajumoke who obtained the Bachelor of Science degree in Zoology from the University of Ibadan in 1990, the Master of Science degree in Parasitology in 1992, graduating with the best result in her class, and the Doctor of Philosophy degree in Zoology (Parasitology) in 1998.with the instruments of office, including the university mace—symbolising authority and the pursuit of knowledge.
Morenikeji, however pledged to transform KolaDaisi University into one of Africa’s leading universities through academic excellence, impactful research, innovation, entrepreneurship and ethical leadership.
According to her, our administration will pursue a 13-point strategic agenda centred on curriculum renewal, research and innovation, artificial intelligence, digital transformation, postgraduate education, entrepreneurship, community engagement, sustainability and good governance.
“Our aspiration should not simply be to become one of Nigeria’s respected private universities. Our aspiration must be to become one of Africa’s leading universities recognised for academic excellence, impactful research, innovation, entrepreneurship, ethical leadership and service to humanity,” she said.
The new VC who is taking over from Adeniyi Olatunbosun, professor and SAN, noted that the future of higher education is collaborative,” so we shall strengthen relationships with universities across Africa and beyond, promote faculty and student exchanges, develop joint research initiatives, expand international collaborations, and enhance our global visibility.
“Through these partnerships, our students and staff will gain broader perspectives, while the University will contribute more significantly to addressing global challenges.”
