By Our Correspondent
Elizade University, Ilara-Mokin, Ondo State, has recorded another milestone in its quest for academic excellence and institutional advancement as its Vice-Chancellor, Professor Philip O. Oguntunde, was honoured with the Outstanding Leadership Award by the Organisation for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD), Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) Branch.
The prestigious award was presented during the 15th Anniversary Celebration of OWSD-FUTA in recognition of Professor Oguntunde’s exemplary leadership, contributions to education, and commitment to institutional growth and national development.
Presenting the award, the President of OWSD-FUTA, Dr. Adeleke Mosunmola Lydia, described Professor Oguntunde as a visionary academic administrator whose leadership has continued to inspire excellence within and beyond the university environment.
According to her, the Vice-Chancellor has demonstrated exceptional commitment to innovation, integrity, academic development and human capital growth, qualities that have significantly enhanced the profile of Elizade University.
“Professor Oguntunde’s ability to inspire, guide and support both staff and students has made a significant difference within the academic environment. This award recognizes his outstanding leadership and continued contributions to education and society,” she said.
Dr. Adeleke noted that under Professor Oguntunde’s leadership, Elizade University has witnessed remarkable progress in academic development, research advancement and institutional growth, further consolidating its position among Nigeria’s leading private universities.
She added that the institution has continued to produce globally competitive graduates while promoting research and innovation capable of addressing contemporary societal challenges.
The anniversary event attracted distinguished scholars, researchers, policymakers and development stakeholders from different parts of the country to celebrate the achievements of women in science and explore strategies for advancing scientific innovation, entrepreneurship and sustainable development.
A major highlight of the programme was a keynote lecture delivered by the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Fortune, Igbotako, Professor Ayo Olajuyigbe, on the theme, “Scientific Excellence and Relevance: From Vision to Venture.”
Professor Olajuyigbe challenged academics and researchers to move beyond theoretical discoveries by translating research outcomes into practical innovations capable of solving societal problems and driving economic growth.
Also speaking, the Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Akure, Professor Adenike Temidayo Oladiji, underscored the importance of collaboration among women scientists.
She observed that women in science often face unique professional challenges and therefore need stronger networks and partnerships to achieve greater impact and representation within the scientific community.
Professor Oladiji stressed that excellence should be viewed as a continuous journey rather than a destination, urging researchers to remain committed to collaboration, resilience and lifelong learning.
Reacting to the award, the Registrar of Elizade University, Mr. Omololu Adegbenro, said the honour was not only a celebration of Professor Oguntunde’s achievements but also a testament to the university’s growing reputation as a world-class institution.
According to him, the recognition underscores Elizade University’s commitment to quality education, impactful research and national development.
The Bursar of the university, Mr. Olusegun Ajeigbe, expressed delight at the recognition, noting that the institution’s leadership continues to set standards worthy of emulation within the higher education sector.
Similarly, the University Librarian, Dr. Ayooluwa Aregbesola, described the award as a validation of scholarship, collaboration and result-oriented research networks that contribute positively to society.
