CHIKUN/KAJURU REP, HON. FIDELIX BAGUDU, ANNOUNCES NEW APPOINTMENTS TO STRENGTHEN INCLUSIVE GOVERNANCE. (PHOTO).
Emeritus Professor Is’haq Oloyede, Registrar of the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB), has decried the increasing trend of Nigerian universities awarding honorary degrees without merit, stating that it has significantly diminished their value. He made these remarks yesterday during the University of Ilorin’s (UNILORIN) investiture ceremony, held as part of the institution’s 50th anniversary celebrations.
Speaking at the event in Ilorin, Oloyede criticized some universities for presenting honorary degrees and awards to individuals both within and outside Nigeria without proper scrutiny. He commended UNILORIN for its restraint in this practice, noting that the university has not awarded honorary degrees in the past 20 years to maintain its standards. “I was part of the team, during my time as Vice Chancellor, that decided UNILORIN should not join the maddening crowd of awarding honorary degrees,” Oloyede stated.
The ceremony honored 65 distinguished Nigerians for their contributions to UNILORIN and society, with the awards categorized into 50 ambassadors, 10 alumni, and two for excellence. Oloyede praised the innovative approach of UNILORIN’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Wahab Egbewole (SAN), for recognizing individuals based on merit and dignity. “Some people even send their drivers to pick up awards because they’ve become worthless,” Oloyede remarked, emphasizing the need for meaningful recognition.
On behalf of the awardees, Oloyede pledged continued service to the university, the nation, and humanity, describing the recognition as a significant honor. Prof. Egbewole explained that the honorees were nominated by their faculties and validated by the Centre for Advancement for their loyalty, mentorship, and contributions to the university. “These individuals have consistently demonstrated loyalty to our values and given back meaningfully,” he said, underscoring the importance of rewarding genuine contributions.
The event highlighted UNILORIN’s commitment to maintaining integrity in its recognition processes, setting it apart from institutions criticized for devaluing honorary awards.
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