By Ajibade Abdullah Adewale
Popular Yoruba actor, Chief Kola Oyewo, on Thursday, graced the induction ceremony of the new intakes of the Linguistics and African Languages Students’ Association of the Obafemi Awolowo University, in grand style.
The ceremony which was held at Pit Theatre had many prominent personalities in attendance.
The veteran actor, who was awarded for his impact on the progress of Yoruba Language and culture in the society, was asked to do “Iwure” where he prayed that the inductees have a smooth run in their academic pursuits.
He implored the inductees to make good use of the opportunity of getting educated as there are people who do not have such opportunities.
“Focus on what you have come to do in OAU, don’t let frivolities take over your time,” Oyewo urged.
In his remarks, the Head of Department, Professor Fabunmi, who was also awarded, noted that any student who wants to graduate well will put in a great effort from the first year.
“Don’t say that you will start to put the effort in year 2 or 3,” he charged.
The Director of Culture, Abidemi Abeeblah while expressing his joy, appreciated God for the success of the ceremony and gave kudos to the lecturers, guests, awardees, and the new intakes for their maximum cooperation.
“To the best of my knowledge and people’s remarks, I think this Induction is the best so far,” he added.
Also speaking at the event, the president of the department, Ojetola Ridwan said, “The induction ceremony has been an avenue for lecturers to pray for the students and also, emphasize how languages and cultures are interrelated. It has been the practice of the department for a long time.”
“Through the induction, students discover their talents. We have some students in part 4 now who discovered their talents when they had their induction,” he affirmed.
Semilore Adesite, one of the inductees, told our correspondent, “The induction ceremony was a very interesting program and an eye-opener to the understanding of our cultural heritage. The teamwork of everyone produced an interesting and eye-catching event for everyone and even the guests.”
The trio of Kolawole Azeez Opomulero, Samuel Ibikunle, Bababunmi Obanimi were also awarded.
A student of the department, Bababunmi Obanimi who was awarded as the best cultural female student extended appreciation to the association and beseeched inductees to be well behaved and face their studies.
Other dignitaries present at the ceremony include Prof. Salawu, Prof. Opefeyitimi, Prof. Ogunwale, Dr Jayeola, Mr Olodude and some parents of the inductees.
