The Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Ibadan recently celebrated a major milestone – 60 years of producing top-notch veterinary professionals.
The occasion marked with a five-day celebration saw the emergence of 90 new vertinary medical doctors being inducted into the profession on Aug. 2.
The anniversary celebration with the theme: “60 years of Veterinary Education, The Goals, The Gains And The Gaps” was held at the faculty auditorium in conjunction with the Veterinary Council of Nigeria.
Other inductees were 11 outstanding individuals who graduated with distinctions, including Dr Abiodun-Ojo Oluwaseyi Iyanuoluwa and Dr Bello Olaoluwa Isaac.
Dr Gbore John, Dr Hamzat Ademola, Dr Onipede Endurance,Dr Opara Nnaemeka, Dr Oremade Opeyemi, Dr Oyatoye Motunrayo, Dr Taiwo Deborah, Dr Taiwo Oluwatobiloba, and Dr Yakub Motunrayo.
They professionals were hailed as the future of veterinary medicine in Nigeria and beyond.
The induction ceremony was attended by dignitaries from all walks of life, including the Vice Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Prof. K.O. Adebowale, and the President of the Veterinary Council of Nigeria, AIG (Dr) Aishatu A. Baju.
In her address, the Dean of the Faculty, Prof. Olufunke Ola-Davies, urged the inductees to uphold the values of their profession and serve as exemplary ambassadors.
Ola-Davies also highlighted the faculty’s achievements, including obtaining full accreditation, promoting staff, and establishing the Alumni Association.
Also, Dr Adebanji Adeniyi, the Induction lecturer spoke on the importance of upholding professionalism and moral behaviour
in the Veterinary Medical practice.
As the inductees took their oath,
in his goodwill message, Prof. Basil Ikede, a graduate of the University in 1967 congratulated the faculty on its achievement over the years in the training of veterinarians.
According to him, the faculty has always contributed to research and education in Nigeria and across the world.
He reminded the inductees of the importance of upholding professionalism and moral behavior in their practice.
“Be confident in administering your profession and bear the name “Doctor” with pride and humility.
The celebration featured a series of events, including a funfair walk show, dog show, career talks for secondary school students, and a visit to an orphanage.
The faculty also provided free anti-rabies vaccination for dogs and free health checks for individuals.
Similarly, in an interview with Ola-Davies, she beamed with pride while reflecting on her leadership journey.
Highlighting some of her achievements so far, the Don stated that her tenure had been marked with remarkable achievements.
According to her, the faculty was operating under interim accreditation.
“However, through tireless efforts, the faculty obtained full accreditation from the National University Commission within months.
She praised the university management for providing a strong platform for her leadership, enabling her to establish the Alumni Association, promote staff, and employ new lecturers.
“Under my guidance, five Readers, six Senior Lecturers, and fifteen Professors were promoted, and twenty-three new lecturers joined the faculty.
“Students also benefited from leadership, with twelve receiving scholarships with full tuition and monthly stipends of N30,000 from an alumnus.
The faculty’s infrastructure has been transformed, with the completion of the Virology and Parasitology Laboratory, renovation of buildings, and construction of a walkway leading to the auditorium.
The faculty now boasts new equipment, including microscopes, ultrasound machines, and a digital X-ray machine, enhancing teaching and research capabilities. A 45 kVA Mikano generator ensures reliable power supply in the faculty auditorium.
Professor Ola-Davies’ vision and leadership have positioned the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine for continued excellence.
As the faculty celebrates its 60th anniversary, her achievements serve as a testament to her dedication and commitment to shaping the future of veterinary medicine in Nigeria and beyond.
The Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Ibadan has indeed come a long way since its establishment in 1961.
With its rich history and commitment to excellence, it continues to produce veterinary professionals who make a difference in the lives of animals and humans alike.