By John Ikani
The University of Lagos (UNILAG) is preparing to celebrate its 60th anniversary in grand style with 83-year-old Dayo Michael Duyile entering record books as the institution’s oldest PhD graduating student.
UNILAG’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, made this known during a pre-convocation press conference, painting a picture of an institution that prizes learning and self-improvement, regardless of age.
But Duyile is not just a distinguished graduate, he is also a living piece of UNILAG’s history, having covered the university’s opening ceremony as a journalist for the Daily Times of Nigeria back in 1962. Talk about coming full circle!
Interestingly, Mr Duyile is not the only octogenarian making history on graduation day. Okonji Obiageli will be receiving a postgraduate degree, proving that it’s never too late to better oneself.
In light of the recent eight-month-long academic strike by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), the convocation ceremony will be focused on postgraduate students. But that doesn’t diminish the achievement of these young graduates, who have worked hard to make the most of their education, despite the challenges.
At the ceremony, a total of 2,251 students will be receiving their degrees, diplomas and certificates, of which 67 will receive postgraduate diplomas, 2,119 will receive Masters degrees, and 65 will receive Doctorate degrees.
The University of Lagos is honoured to have these remarkable students and distinguished alumni, as they are living proof that age is just a number and learning is a lifelong endeavour.
