…..Prof. Tunde Owolabi of LASU 

…as Ansar-Ud-Deen College Celebrates Graduation

By Funmi Ajumobi

Professor Tunde Owolabi, former Dean of the Faculty of Education and a professor in the Department of Science and Technology Education at Lagos State University, has asserted that it is a misconception to believe that the standard of education in Nigeria has declined. He attributes the challenges in student performance to a lack of parental involvement in monitoring their children’s reading and learning habits. 

Speaking at the graduation ceremony jeld in the school hall for the 2023/2024 cohort of AnsaUd-Deen College in Isolo, Lagos State, Professor Owolabi noted that admission requirements for higher education have become increasingly stringent. He pointed out that while past admissions could be secured with credit passes and good grades in the UTME, today’s competitive landscape demands distinctions in WASSCE, higher UTME scores, and successful post-UTME results. Owolabi emphasized that parents play a crucial role in fostering an effective learning environment. 

“Education is a serious endeavor that requires complete focus and proper guidance for children. Cell phones are significant distractions that hinder students’ academic performance today. The standard of education has not fallen; parents must establish a standard at home if they genuinely desire better outcomes for their children,” he stated. 

He urged graduates to be prepared for life’s challenges, explaining that each step taken is merely the beginning of another hurdle. “We have seen individuals who have taken WASSCE multiple times achieve great success, while others with distinctions struggle. Stay focused and pursue your ambitions with determination. Graduation marks the start of new challenges,” Owolabi concluded. 

Mr. Olatunde Balogun, chairman of the Parents Teachers Association, also addressed the students, congratulating them on completing their secondary education and commending their parents for their commitment to providing quality education. He encouraged graduates to make their parents proud: “Your parents have invested significantly in your education. Go out and be exemplary representatives of your family, school, and society.” 

Outgoing Head Boy Badmus Mubaraq Oluwafisayomi expressed gratitude to the school and his peers for the opportunity to serve, advising his classmates to view academic obstacles as opportunities for growth. He encouraged them to remain focused on their goals and to remember the lessons learned during their time at school. 

Outgoing Head Girl Sholabomi Mariam Ebunoluwa reflected on the transformative experiences they shared at the school, stating they are equipped to face future challenges with courage and selfbelief. “We are ready to embrace the future with determination and confidence in our abilities,” she affirmed. 

In his welcome address, Principal Mr. Adebambo T.O. celebrated the students’ accomplishments and encouraged them to uphold the values instilled during their six years at the school. He emphasized that their curiosity, integrity, and determination will be key to thriving in an ever-changing world and urged them to carry forward the spirit of excellence, compassion, and community that defines their alma mater.