History was recorded in Ilawe-Ekiti on Tuesday as the Federal College of Education (FCE), Ilawe-Ekiti, held its maiden matriculation ceremony, formally admitting 317 pioneer students into the institution.
The colourful event, which took place at the College Auditorium, was presided over by the Provost, Professor Ajigbade Ikuejube, and attended by dignitaries, traditional rulers, education stakeholders, members of the Governing Council, and the College’s Principal Officers.
Dignitaries, traditional rulers, education stakeholders, members of the Governing Council, and the College’s Principal Officers were in attendance.
This was contained in a statement signed by Temilola Mercy Ajide, Information Officer of the Federal College of Education, Ilawe-Ekiti.
The statement reads partly: “The colourful event was attended by the JAMB State Coordinator in Ekiti, Mr. Kayode Dada; Head of Matriculation, JAMB Ekiti, Mr. Ishola Ganuju; and Chairman, House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Hon. Babatunde Oke, who represented the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Adepter Stephen Aribajoye. Also present were Mr. Adebayo Rojugbokan, Chairman, Internal Service, Ondo State, alongside the College’s management team led by the Provost, the Registrar, Mrs. Khadijah Wuraola Garba; the Bursar, Mrs. Mofolusho Olutayo-David; and the Librarian, Dr. Isah Abdulmumin.”
The statement further highlighted the keynote lecture delivered by renowned scholar and former Vice-Chancellor, Professor Femi Mimiko, who addressed the matriculants on the theme, “Teacher Education and Nigeria’s National Development.”
According to the statement, Mimiko said: “Teacher education is the foundation of national growth and transformation. You, the matriculants, are pathfinders in the College’s history and must commit to discipline, resilience, and excellence. The growing impact of Artificial Intelligence on education calls on Nigeria to embrace innovation while safeguarding moral values. Avoid destiny-bursting pastimes that could derail your future.”
Royal fathers, including the Alawe of Ilawe-Ekiti, Oba Adebanji Ajibade Alabi (Afuntade I), the Oba of Igede-Ekiti, and the Oba of Ikere-Ekiti, added cultural significance to the ceremony, offering prayers for the institution and its students.
In his address, Provost Ikuejube congratulated the new students and urged them to uphold discipline, hard work, and moral integrity.
He reiterated the College’s mission of training competent teachers who will contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s educational development.
The ceremony reached its climax with the administration of the matriculation oath, formally inducting the 317 pioneer students into the College community.