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Celebrations As Professor Joshua Ajele Retires from Service


The Department of Biochemistry, Federal University of Technology Akure, FUTA on Friday 13th December 2024 rolled out the drums to celebrate one of its erudite scholars and researcher par excellence, Professor Joshua Ajele who bowed out of service on that day on the attainment of the statutory retirement age of 70. The staff and students of the department were joined by principal officers, senior academic and administrative staff of the University and family members to felicitate and celebrate an academic whose imprimatur of excellent service will remain indelible for a long time to come.

In a glowing tribute by the Head of Department Biochemistry, Professor Afolabi Akinmoladun, represented by Professor Ige Kade, Professor Ajele was described as a distinguished Scholar, leader, and a mentor. He said professor Ajele’s passion for excellence has left an indelible mark on the Department of Biochemistry, the School of Life Science, and the University at large.
Professor Akimoladun stated that Ajele’s legacy extends beyond administrative and academic achievements, as he was a mentor, elder, and pioneer scholar who showed the way to many upcoming ones in his field who have also become giants in their own rights. ‘Ajele has shaped the live of countless students and colleagues, and his integrity, courage and steadfast dedication to responsibility has been a beacon of inspiration to the department,” he said.

In same manner, Professors Akintunde Akindahunsi, Ayodele Kolawole, Ola Salau, Folashade Adejuyigbe, all appreciated the erudite scholar for the role he played in shaping the department and ensuring that it’s standing tall amongst other departments in the School.

Speaking at the occasion, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Adenike Oladiji Represented by Dean School of Physical Sciences, Professor Barnabas Adebola thanked the celebrant and congratulated him for his unblemished meritorious service to the University. While describing Professor Ajele, the Vice Chancellor said teachers are priceless; to despise teachers would be to despise knowledge. She said without teachers there could never be transmission of knowledge from place to place and from generation to generation. She said Professor Ajele exemplifies the nobility and importance of the teaching profession in all its ramification.

In his response, Professor Joshua Ajele appreciated the management for their roles in ensuring that Biochemistry Department is not left behind in the scheme of things. He thanked every member of the department of Biochemistry, Staff and Student for giving him the chance to serve and contribute his quota to the system.
The celebrant stated that he is particularly grateful to God for making him witness his 70th birthday as he was there during the infancy and nurturing stage of FUTA and he is witnessing and experiencing a time when FUTA is the best University of Technology in the country.

Professor Joshua Ajele was born on December 14, 1954 in Iju Akure North LGA OF Ondo State. He joined the services of FUTA as a part time lecturer in 1984 with the Dept of Biochemistry and rose through the ranks to become a professor in Oct 2007.His extensive teaching portfolio include General Biochemistry, Protein Structure and function, Enzymology, Biochemical Toxicology, Advanced Biochemistry, and gene regulation. Professor Ajele sterling contributions within the University include Academic leadership, committee membership, mentorship and coordination, community engagements and he also served as secretary ASSUU, FUTA branch (1991-1994).