The Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA), FUTA Professor Adenike Oladiji has charged newly promoted professors not to rest on their oars in contributing towards the growth and development of FUTA and entrenching the institution as one of the best globally especially its niche as a research-intensive University.
Professor Oladiji gave the admonition at a reception organized to honour the academics. She acknowledged their new level saying that it signifies an important peak in their academic career which is a result of consistent hard work and focus adding that it was not a mean feat to attain the rank of professor.
She however enjoined them to study more and add to intellectual discourse in their various areas of specialization.
The Vice Chancellor said, "The development of any nation depends on the standard and level of its education. Nations gain prominence through technological advancement which is a product of research endeavours and when research is being discussed attention shifts naturally to professors. The onus lies on you therefore to do more research and ensure that innovative ideas are constantly churned out of the laboratories."
She also urged the new professors to represent the academic class with respectability and decorum adding that they must represent the virtues of honour and dignity to their colleagues, students and other members of the society through their carriage and work.
Professor Oladiji said it was necessary to adopt a culture of celebrating staff who had achieved great feats as "there are more things that unite us than divide us. so we must utilize every opportunity that brings us together to celebrate one another "
Speaking also, the Registrar, Mr. Charles Adeleye said that it was historic that dons who have gotten to the apex of their academic sojourn are honoured. He said the university still remains the leading light in the society for illumination and guidance.
He implored the professors to uphold the tenets of research and objectivity in the discharge of official duties and teaching and research.
Responding on behalf of other professors, Professor Mobolaji Stephens appreciated the management for the honour accorded them and promised not to relent in being worthy ambassadors of the institution.
