Yaba College of Technology in Lagos will confer its highest fellowship honours on Education Minister Tunji Alausa, Finance Minister Taiwo Oyedele, and accountancy graduate Itunu Omotayo during its 38th convocation ceremony. The event is scheduled to take place next Thursday, according to a report by Punch. Rector Dr Ibraheem Abdul announced the recipients during a pre-convocation press conference held at the institution on Friday. The fellowship awards recognize the recipients' contributions to education, public administration, economic development, and societal advancement.
Dr Abdul highlighted Minister Alausa’s role in advancing the Federal Government’s educational reform agenda and strengthening access to quality education. The rector specifically noted Alausa’s involvement in securing presidential assent for the bill that converts YABATECH into the Federal University of Technology and Vocational Studies. Regarding Minister Oyedele, a proud alumnus, Abdul stated his recognition demonstrates the institution's capacity to nurture leaders in national and global affairs. The rector cited Oyedele’s contributions to fiscal policy reforms and economic development as key factors in the nomination.
The third honoree, Itunu Omotayo, was recognized for her commitment to her alma mater. Abdul explained that Omotayo led her graduating class in mobilizing over N100m for the renovation of the School of Management and Business Studies building. The rector described this intervention as an inspiring example of alumni loyalty and institutional partnership. He added that the honours aim to encourage current students and alumni to excel and give back to the institution.
The convocation also marks a critical phase in the college's transition to a university. Abdul confirmed that the bill signed by President Bola Tinubu requires gazetting before the Ministry of Education can conduct an institutional evaluation. Following this, the National Universities Commission will accredit the new university's courses. Abdul stated that internal committees are already prepared to facilitate this conversion. The 38th convocation, running from November 13 to 19, will see 10,886 students graduate from the 2024/2025 academic session. The convocation lecture on November 17 will be delivered by Lagos State Deputy Governor Dr Kadri Obafemi Hamzat.