The newly elected Executives of the Students’ Union of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, have been inaugurated with a charge to deliver effectively.
This call was made at the inaugural ceremony of the executives held at the Olusegun Obasanjo Multipurpose hall (OBJ) on the 6th of October, 2021, which was attended by the school’s Vice-Chancellor, Registrar and other important administrators from the institution.
Delivering his speech, the Vice-Chancellor of the institution, Professor Olugbenga Ige, urged the executives to serve as the students’ representatives and to also act as the interface between them and the university’s management on the one hand, and as arbiters between the students themselves on the other.
“You are expected to present the challenges confronting them to the relevant authorities for action; therefore, the assignments before you require seriousness and commitment.”
He noted that the task ahead might look challenging but urged them to take solace in the fact that serving as a Student Union Executive remained a veritable training ground for many who have gone to become national leaders.
“Fate has entrusted unto you an opportunity to learn practical leadership skills and to learn human and financial management. I exhort you to utilize this opportunity to make your mark and leave indelible footprints for posterity.
“Let me remind you that violence through ALUTA or any other guise is no longer fashionable in the contemporary world of union activities. I, therefore, advise you to always toe the path of peace, dialogue and negotiation in addressing issues.
“From my experience as a former student and academic unionist, it is not unlikely that you will experience pressure from your fellow students, and as leaders, you must be dynamic in handling situations under such circumstances.”
However, he reiterated the commitment of the management to giving a listening ear to the union, saying that the door would be open to all submissions and suggestions.
“I always tell staff members that we are here to make the stay of all students as stress-free as possible. My door will be opened, and rest assured of our necessary support. In addition, you must also be in touch with the Dean of students.”
Furthermore, he advised the executives to imbibe the habit of running a thorough administration, making sure to carry every member of the executive along in all matters, including finance and administration.
“One of the easiest ways to run into troubled waters as leaders is not to be clear and transparent in handling finances. As I had told you earlier, your election is an opportunity to show how well you can manage men and resources,” he said.
Furthermore, he appreciated the Students Union electoral Committee, Student Affairs Division, security personnel and other stakeholders for successfully conducting the election.
In his speech during the inauguration, the new President of the Union, Ogunsanmi Kolade Olumide (popularly known as Multiple), affirmed that his administration would continue engaging and partnering with the management towards enhancing positive results.
“It is essential to note that we are not coming on board to be anti-management but to unequivocally represent the interest of the students and to represent every form of justice.”
He also emphasised his manifestos that stood on ensuring, deliberating and sustained partnership with telecommunications companies in bringing about free internet access to the institution.
Also, he noted his tenure in office would encourage entrepreneurs through the creation of enabling environments and programmes for them to thrive in their respective entrepreneurship pursuits.
According to him, “There was going to be the auction of the usage of solar as an alternative source of powering the institution, as well as renovation of the Student Union building and returning all Student Union property to student building.
More so, he committed to ensuring a conducive environment for learning, one that will meet the required standards of a 21st Century university.
“It is an undeniable fact that there is a need to awaken students’ consciousness on Students’ Unionism. The atmosphere is not encouraging. We, however, cannot walk the walk alone, but we urge every student stakeholder to take active roles.
“We will be working a lot more with all Class Representatives for an impeccable grass root representation and other stakeholders for administrative convenience. This administration will ensure that a peaceful and convenient atmosphere is maintained as our focus is to erect a lasting foundation for the Students’ union.
“Henceforth, we must pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off and begin the work of revitalizing our union again.”
The student’s Senate president, Adeleke Rasheed Olamilekan, known as Aremo Royal, Vice President Salami Kemisola, popularly known as Kemzy, and other executives communicated their commitment to serve the students as they took the oath of office.
Recall that campus reporter earlier reported that the students of AAUA elected new students executives for the 2020/2021 academic session to direct their affairs.
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