Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun has emphasized that education without character poses a danger to society, urging graduates to combine academic excellence with integrity, innovation, and service to humanity.
The governor made the remarks on Tuesday during the 15th Postgraduate Convocation and Doctor of Philosophy Hooding Ceremony at Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State.
Speaking on the theme “Breaking New Grounds,” Abiodun said that while academic certificates recognize educational achievement, graduates will ultimately be remembered for the positive impact they make in their communities.
He described the convocation as more than the completion of an academic programme, noting that it marks the beginning of greater responsibility and purposeful leadership.
“This convocation is not simply the end of your academic journey but the beginning of a new phase of responsibility. Your success will be measured not only by your qualifications but by the difference you make in society,” he said.
The governor urged graduates to reject mediocrity, embrace innovation, and become creators of solutions rather than waiting for employment opportunities.
He encouraged them to build institutions, uphold truth, and contribute meaningfully to national development through ethical leadership and professionalism.
Reflecting on the rapid advancement of technology, Abiodun noted that while artificial intelligence (AI) can process information efficiently, it cannot replace essential human values such as integrity, compassion, ethical judgment, and moral responsibility.
According to him, the future belongs to individuals who combine technological competence with strong character, humility, and excellence.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to investing in education, technology, entrepreneurship, and innovation, describing human capital as the most valuable asset for sustainable development.
Governor Announces Cash Awards for Outstanding Graduates
As part of efforts to encourage academic excellence, Governor Abiodun announced cash rewards for the university’s best graduating postgraduate students.
The awards include:
- ₦2 million each for the overall best Master of Science and Master of Philosophy graduates.
- ₦1.5 million for the best Postgraduate Diploma graduate.
- ₦2.5 million for the overall best Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) graduate.
He also approved a similar cash award for the university’s overall best undergraduate student, which will be presented during the undergraduate convocation ceremony.
Vice-Chancellor Urges Lifelong Learning
In his address, the Vice-Chancellor of Babcock University, Professor Afolarin Ojewole, reminded doctoral graduates that earning a PhD represents the beginning of greater scholarly responsibility rather than the end of learning.
He urged them to continue conducting impactful research, addressing societal challenges, mentoring younger scholars, and ensuring their knowledge contributes meaningfully to humanity.
Professor Ojewole reiterated the university’s commitment to producing graduates whose academic excellence is matched by integrity, entrepreneurship, and service through its G.R.A.C.E. philosophy, which promotes a Globally Relevant, Research-Focused, Adventist-Rooted, Competent, and Entrepreneurial university community.
Distinguished PhD Recipients
The convocation ceremony also featured the award of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees to the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Salako, who earned a PhD in Public Health, and the Ogun State Chief of Staff, Dr. Oluwatoyin Taiwo, who received a PhD in Public Administration.
The event highlighted the importance of combining academic achievement with ethical leadership and lifelong learning in addressing societal challenges and advancing national development.
