Egbewole, others eulogise Olasheinde-Williams
The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, has joined other staff members and students of the institution in commending the academic prowess, mentorship sagacity and motherly traits of a former Dean of the institution’s Faculty of Education, Felicia Olasheinde-Williams.
Speaking at a send-forth ceremony held at the Faculty of Education Lecture Theatre penultimate Thursday (January 11, 2024), Prof. Egbewole, who was respresented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Management Services), Prof. Suleiman Folorunsho Ambali, praised Prof. Olasheinde-Williams for her exceptional contributions to the field of education and her unwavering dedication to shaping the lives of generations of students and mentoring fellow lecturers.
Acknowledging her profound impact on the academic community, the Vice Chancellor explained the importance of recognising and appreciating those who served humanity selflessly and meritoriously. He explained that Prof. Olasheinde-Williams has written her name in gold and that posterity will be kind to her.
The Vice Chancellor also pointed out that the honouree as a trailblaser in online teaching at the University of Ilorin, noting that her influence extended beyond the University as the National Institute of Security Studies (NISS) promptly recognised and embraced her expertise upon her retirement.
Prof. Egbewole expressed gratitude to the Department of Educational Psychology and Faculty of Education for honouring the former Dean.
He noted that Prof. Olasheinde-Williams’ journey doesn’t end with retirement, as she continues to inspire and contribute to education in her new role at NISS.
Speaking earlier, the Dean of the Faculty of Education, University of Ilorin Prof. Lasiele Alabi Yahaya, expressed profound gratitude to the retired Professor for the remarkable contributions She offered the University and humanity .
The Dean said “She is a mother who will be missed at the Faculty. We recognise her unparalleled commitment and tireless efforts in shaping the lives of both staff and students. Her departure leaves a void that will be hard to fill”.
Prof. Yahaya, who is a former Director of the University’s Institute of Education, also affirmed that one of Prof. Olasheinde-Williams’ notable achievements was the introduction of online teaching at the Faculty,adding that the visionary move not only modernised the educational landscape but also positioned the institution at the forefront of innovative pedagogy.
In a tribute, the Head of the Department of Social Sciences Education at the Faculty of Education, Prof. Ismaila Amali, expressed deep appreciation for the admirable services rendered by the esteemed former Dean.
Prof. Amali remarked that the honouree served the University meritoriously, leaving an indelible mark on the academic landscape.
He added that they were already missing her most dearly because she left a vacuum that is hard to fill.
Speaking further, Prof. Amali said that the honouree always demonstrated exceptional leadership and a commitment to excellence during her tenure as the Dean of the Faculty of Education and when she was the Director of various Centres in the University of Ilorin.
He said “One notable aspect of her leadership was the transformative influence she exerted on the Directors of various Centres, notably the Centre for International Education (CIE) and the Center for Peace and Strategic Studies (CPSS)”.
While commending her for bringing her brilliance to bear on these Centres, leading to advancements in education, research, and strategic studies, the Head of the Department highlighted the significant impact Prof. Olasehinde-Williams made on various fronts, especially in fostering robust education, promoting quality research, and advancing pedagogy both within and outside the University community.
. Responding, the former Dean expressed her gratitude to the University management, the Faculty, and her Department for the trust bestowed upon her during her tenure.
While acknowledging the University’s recognition of her contributions, Prof. Olasheinde-Williams attributed the honour to God as she expressed gratitude to all those who supported her and her family throughout the journey.
The retired Professor of Educational Psychology encouraged the students to be open to opportunities as she explained the significance of education beyond obtaining a degree. “It is not enough to come to the University to get a degree. There is what is called the G-factor. It tells you that once you have a fundamental degree, you can be a player in all fields,” she advised.
Reflecting on the challenges and delays she experienced in her career, the astute scholar expressed the need for all to exhibit resilience and unwavering faith in divine timing. She noted that “God knew that I would spend 16 years waiting before I become a Professor, and He prepared me for it. In all of those years, I never sat down to bemoan the delay”.
She added that the fact that she was immediately engaged on a national assignment at the National Institute for Security Studies (NISS) as a Study Group Coordinator, a role she didn’t anticipate immediately after leaving her former academic position, is a proof that God is the best planner.
The ceremony was graced by various Heads of Departments, Directors, students and staff of the University of Ilorin as well as friends and family members of Prof. Olasehinde-Williams.