International students of the University of Ibadan have been identified as critical stakeholders in shaping the identity of the university in its renewed effort at building a global community beyond borders.
This was made known by the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kayode O. Adebowale, mni, FAS, in an address read on his behalf by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research, Innovation and Strategic Partnerships, Professor Oluyemisi Bamgbose, SAN, at the 2023 International Students’ Forum organised by the Office of International Programmes, University of Ibadan.
“This forum holds immense significance for the University of Ibadan as it marks a pivotal step in our journey towards becoming a truly global institution. It is also a platform for us to not just celebrate the diversity within our campus, but also to actively promote understanding, inclusivity, and collaboration among students from all corners of the world”, he declared.
Professor Adebowale commended the students for consistently demonstrating immense talent, passion, resilience as well as ability to adapt and thrive in a foreign environment.
He, therefore, admonished them to participate actively and freely in dialogues by expressing their thoughts, sharing experiences, and engaging with the OIP and University Management.
The Vice-Chancellor said the forum was an opportunity to listen to and understand the challenges faced by the students and proffer solutions that will better support and enhance a successful academic journey.
The Director, Office of International Programmes, Professor Olufunmilayo Fawole informed the students of the vast experience of the University of Ibadan on internationalisation which has positioned the University as a force to be reckoned with and a model from which other institutions are learning.
She further said that OIP is creating the needed link between the University of Ibadan and the entire globe, in line with its vision of bringing the world to UI and presenting UI to the world.
She enjoined all the students to see themselves as ambassadors of UI to their various countries.
According to Professor Fawole, the University of Ibadan has over 100 international students drawn from Africa, Europe, Asia, and North America.
Lectures delivered at the forum included:
● International Students Integration: Challenges and Good Practices” delivered by Professor A. S. Ajala
● Making the best of your stay at the University of Ibadan delivered by the Dean of Students, Professor Keye Abiona
● Understanding your Academic Experience in the University of Ibadan (course work, examination, project work, thesis writing, and defence) delivered by the Deputy Provost, Administration, Postgraduate College, Professor E. O. Ewuola.
Apart from the lectures, there was an interactive session where concerns on banking issues, immigration related issues and health related matters were adequately addressed by officers of the University and other experts invited for that purpose from within and outside including the Director, University Health Services, Dr. Aderonke Ajav and seasoned bank officials from leading banking institutions around.
