Valedictory Address delivered by MISS OLUWANIFEMI FAVOUR OLAJUYIGBE, from the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Overall Best Graduating Student with CPGA 4.93 at the 33rd Convocation Ceremony of the Federal University of Technology Akure, FUTA on Friday November 17, 2023.
Protocols, The Vice Chancellor of our Great Institution, Prof. Adenike Temidayo Oladiji, FAS Kindly permit me to adopt the already established protocols. I am deeply honored to stand before you today as the valedictorian, representing the 2021 Graduating Class.
My journey at FUTA has been a testament to determination, resilience, and unwavering faith. When I first set foot on this campus, I did not have grand aspirations of becoming the best student in the department, let alone the entire university. However, I always held the mindset of giving my absolute best in everything I pursued, and I refused to back down in the face of challenges. I vividly remember one of my major prayer points upon being admitted to the university: "Father, make me excel wherever I am, so when people ask how I’m doing it, I will say it is by Your grace." Looking back, I can confidently say that I am a product of that prayer, and I humbly give all glory to God. It is not by my own power or might that I stand here as the best-graduating student but by the grace of God.
To all my amazing Class of 2021 students, our set was a peculiar one. Our journey in FUTA was one of the longest the school has had in a while. Five (5) years turned to seven (7) with no carryovers; it was not an easy feat. We faced seemingly endless strikes that tested our patience and resolve. While our peers in private schools graduated, we were at home, facing uncertainties. Yet, here we are, the resilient Class of 2021, emerging victorious from the challenges that have only made us stronger. Remember the countless sleepless nights, the long hours of classes, the daunting courses, the anxiety that comes with preparing for tests and exams, and the times of confusion when grappling with complex courses? In hindsight, these experiences, although difficult at the time, have molded and prepared us for where we stand today. FUTA has instilled in us invaluable lessons about resilience, innovation, unity, hard work, excellence, and self-reliance. It is no surprise to see FUTA graduates excelling in various fields. Fellow graduating students, every one of us has a unique story, a unique struggle, and a unique triumph. As we step out into the world beyond this campus, let us carry with us the lessons we have learnt, the friendships we have forged, and the memories we have created together. Let us continue to uphold the values of resilience, innovation, and excellence that FUTA has instilled in us and make our alma mater proud wherever our paths may lead us.
Our achievements are not just a reflection of our hard work but also a testament to the support and encouragement we received from the entire FUTA community. Let us continue to pay it forward and inspire the generations that will follow in our footsteps. To the undergraduates, I offer this advice: always strive to be the best wherever you are and in whatever you do, never give up regardless of the obstacles you face. With faith in God and determination, success is inevitable. Let Proverbs 22:29 be your anchor, “Seest thou a man diligent in his business? He shall stand before kings: He shall not stand before mean men.” This is one of the secrets of success. Before I conclude, I must express my immense gratitude to God for His grace and guidance throughout this remarkable journey. I also want to extend my heartfelt appreciation to some remarkable individuals. To my beloved parents, Revd. Dr. Ebenezer and Prof. Folasade Olajuyigbe, your unwavering love and support have been my guiding light. Without your encouragement and sacrifices, this achievement would not have been possible.
I also want to thank my siblings, Toluwanimi, Daniel, and David Olajuyigbe, for their constant cheerleading and support. To my phenomenal lecturers, who were not just teachers but mentors, I say thank you, especially to my Supervisor, Dr A. O. Fadamiro, the HoD in my final year, Dr T. O. Ale, and all lecturers and staff of the Electrical and Electronics Engineering Department. I appreciate your guidance and patience and for constantly pushing us beyond our limits. I cannot forget to mention my amazing departmental mates; shout out to EEE Class 2021. I want to specifically appreciate my incredible friends and reading partners who have constantly encouraged and motivated me, including Ewulo Oluwadara, Oluyamo Goodness, Oviangbede Evelyn, Okpafi Alice, Osadua Blessing, Jide-Filani Beauty, Molade Korede, Adams Derinsola, Ehizokhale Ikhianosen, and Okunlola Moyo. Your presence made the academic journey not only bearable but also enjoyable. Deep appreciation goes to all members of the Chapel of Faith, FUTA, where I worshipped, especially the youth arm, Chapel Youth Fellowship (CYF) and the Choir, where I served as the Students’ Representative and Choir Secretary. Thank you all for your love, prayers and support.
I also want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the entire FUTA community: all Academic, Technical, Administrative and Professional staff, and everyone who has contributed to making FUTA a nurturing environment for academic excellence. On behalf of all graduating students, I use this opportunity to say a huge thank you to all our wonderful and loving parents. We sincerely cannot appreciate you enough for the unending love and care you have showered on us and all the sacrifices you made to give us a befitting education. We pray that God will grant you grace and long life in perfect health to reap the fruit of your labor over us in Jesus Name.
In closing, I am immensely grateful for this honor and the opportunity to stand before you all today. As we celebrate this significant milestone, let us look to the future with hope, determination, and a commitment to making a positive impact in the world. Congratulations, Class of 2021! Our journey at FUTA may be ending, but our journey to greatness has only just begun. Thank you.
Oluwanifemi Favour Olajuyigbe Valedictorian, 2023 FUTA Convocation.
