The Vice-Chancellor of Bowen University, Prof. Jonathan Babalola, reaffirmed his commitment to nurturing graduates who are not only academically proficient but also grounded in godliness, excellence, innovation, entrepreneurship, and social responsibility. His vision for the university is to equip students with the necessary tools to thrive in both local and global workforces. He made this statement during the 23rd matriculation ceremony, where approximately 1,600 new students were formally inducted into the university.
Prof. Babalola emphasized to the incoming students that their admission into Bowen University marks the beginning of a transformative journey—one that is not just about acquiring knowledge, but about molding their character, igniting their passions, and setting the foundation for their future aspirations. He highlighted that Bowen is more than a place of academic learning; it is a community built on core values that include godliness, excellence, and social responsibility—values that will guide students toward personal fulfillment and success in life.
While urging the students to dedicate themselves to their academic pursuits, Prof. Babalola stressed the importance of avoiding distractions and immoral behavior. He made it clear that the university maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy towards drug and substance abuse and will not accept any form of anti-social conduct on campus. Discipline and respect for authority, he added, are paramount, and all students are expected to uphold the university’s rules and regulations. Bowen University stands firm on moral standards grounded in scripture, regardless of societal trends.
The Vice-Chancellor also expressed gratitude to the parents of the matriculating students, thanking them for entrusting their children to the institution. He encouraged the parents to be patient and understanding, especially regarding matters they may not fully comprehend, and to support their children in communicating openly with university authorities.
In a related address, the invited guest lecturers, Leye Falade, CEO of Brunei Liquefied Natural Gas, and his twin brother, Gbite Falade, CEO of Aradel Holding Plc, shared their personal journeys of success. As First Class graduates and prominent figures in the business world, they spoke about the importance of hard work, discipline, and godliness in achieving long-term success. They urged the new students to develop a learner’s mindset, emphasizing the value of acquiring skills that will help them become self-sufficient and relevant in the competitive world. They encouraged the students to remain focused, prioritize their goals, and pursue them with determination, reminding them that excellence is the result of consistent effort and well-executed plans.
