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By: The Scribe

As the 2024 Nuesa Election styles to being 2 days away, we find pace and solace in having a moment of conversation with our presidential aspirants. We continue the interview with another aspirant to the position of Nuesa President, Emmanuel Samuel Olamide, (pka Mazi) a 300-level student of the Human Kinetics department

Interviewer: Can you help introduce yourself?

Olamide: I’m Emmanuel Samuel Olamide, a 300 level student of the department of Human Kinetics, Faculty of Education.

Interviewer: For your candidacy, can you help clarify the position you are aspiring for?

Olamide: I’m a presidential aspirant for the Faculty of Education.

Interviewer: Alright. I think we should call you a fighter. Having faced a series of allegations from the FLC and initially disqualified by ESEC, you were later vindicated by FJC. You’ve almost rounded all the arms of NUESA. You want to comment on this?

Olamide: Well, personally I believe that nothing good comes easy. These are just trials of integrity and character and I’ve proven again and again that, Maazi is more than a person, it’s a Movement.

Interviewer: A movement? That sounds like a walk supported by a number of individuals. What makes this movement something that can materialize to its sighted goal?

Olamide: Ideas aren’t fully formed. Far away Greece, centuries ago Plato didn’t know his ideas would mean much today. It’s not a one of thing as we all have ideas that we believe in. It’s a movement of Service and I’ve shown that. When I was sports sec., I had the longest running program in the Faculty; 2 weeks of selflessness service. Isn’t that a movement?

Interviewer: I’m sure Educators have the intellect to score you based on this.

Olamide: Different strokes for different folks. I must say.

Interviewer: Considering your run of knowledge in sports and also combining the experience as the former sport director, do you think that is enough to aspire for the position of Nuesa President?

Olamide: Anyone can aspire to be. It’s what you’ve to offer, your impact and the positive changes you want to make that matters.

Interviewer: Which means Olamide Samuel ‘Mazi’ has something worthwhile for all Educators if elected as NUESA 001?

Olamide: There is continuity in administration. This means efficient plans of past administrations will continue and new plans in line with the motto of Nuesa “ for progress and wisdom “ will be surely implemented.

Interviewer: I spot the word continuity, which shall birth this question. What is the key drive of your ambition to run for Nuesa President?

Olamide: The school is a fragment of society and for us to effect the possibility of positive changes that we want to see happen in society, we need to get it right in our learning communities. Politics is everywhere spanning from the Family to Religious places and with one core thing in mind, improving humanity. With this in mind, improving the welfare of many Educator’s of which I belong (as an effect of the community earlier mentioned) is the drive. We should be better as “Nation Builders”.

Interviewer: By the significant saying of WELFARISM, you mean making life better holistically for every single Educator?

Olamide: America as the greatest country can’t say that it has holistically improved the life of every one of its citizens. However, the plans set in place are for the betterment of all Americans and to this I need to state that the plans I’ve are for all educators and will ensure that it impacts to a large extent.

Interviewer: Alright. Let’s take a look at some controversies. In the allegations you were guilty of, according to the FLC Disciplinary Committee, that of Extra-budgetary and Accepting funds of scholarship into personal account.

Considering the weight of these offenses, how do you want Educators to trust your administration financially if elected?

Olamide: To address this. I’ll tell you what I told the disciplinary committee of the Flc, Esec chairman during my screening.

I had a personal relationship with the person who paid money into my account who had it previously. I was also cleared by the Disciplinary committee of the Flc as I was able to account for every money spent.  The extra-budgetary statement may be confusing to a lay man. The money was put into good use. Upgrading prize money from #52,000 to #105,000 was considered an extra budget. The extra budget was used to provide individual awards for participants. A lot of Educators still don’t know this.

Interviewer: A number of them will know through the publication of this interview. Thanks for the clarification. 

You want to comment on that petition written against you concerning Dean’s Cup management? Perhaps, you need to make clarifications for people who need such.

Olamide: About the petition, it’s clear that the petitioner did it to soil my good name and reputation. Someone that petitioned me and didn’t come when the disciplinary committee called me, ignored the invitation of the Faculty officer and is now seeking redemption? His department had a candidate and he decided to play political propaganda with me. Let it be known that I’ve been cleared of his petition charges since the 29th of February.

Interviewer: A propaganda. Isn’t that expected in a time like this? Don’t you think that’s the beauty of election campaigns? Seeing politics as a dirty game that they call it.

Well, don’t you think that petition and the fact that you scale through it must have added to the numbers of Educators who believe in you?

Olamide: As earlier said, if we are to reform we have to reflect. These are issues that the society outside school faces. We don’t even think about the ripple effect that propaganda has. No one from my team has and will trend propaganda because life goes beyond school.  The petition was a dent on my credibility and my person and I’ve proved that, my credibility and integrity stands. I hope Educators can see the truth in the light of recent events.

Interviewer: Alright. Three presidential candidates from the same hall of residence. Who is the hall supporting?

Olamide: The hall is playing non-partisan and I understand that. Freedom to vote and to be voted for is a tenet upholding in the Hall. That’s a testament to the fact that Katanga hall is the greatest of all!

Interviewer: What gives you that edge over other candidates? What is that thing you wanna sell as unique?

Olamide: The question should be, what have the other candidates done in the effectiveness of their offices? I’ve brought ideas which can be improved upon and in a way, set a bit of standard. Next Dean’s cup prize money for 1st position of the Male team can’t be lesser than #25,000 and of the Female team can’t be lesser than #20,000. Look at me recognizing students with disabilities, no one has done that via sports till I did it. I ensured individual medals and brought professional referees. I’m an efficient and efficient person and more importantly willing to learn even from whatever may be deemed a mistake. That alone is a unique thing about me. Secondly, most people don’t know that I work with SDG 2030 goals in mind. We should incorporate 21st century thinking into our doing and I’m the only candidate that can do that.

Interviewer: Alright. Any information you want to pass across to Educators?

Olamide: We were students first before anything and shouldn’t lose focus of our primary objectives. To every Educator, irrespective of any whatsoever, Maazi will always be your number 1 fan.

Interviewer: Thank You. We wish you all the very best of luck in your ambition.

Olamide: Thanks a lot! I very much appreciate it.

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By: Eniola

In this section of celebrating Assesaites who are exploring and doing amazingly well for themselves in the aspect of entrepreneur, the focus of this space shifts to 200lv where we had a session with Adewuyi Folashade of Folathreadings.

Adewuyi Folashade is a fashion designer who also engages in customizing tote bags, bottles and the like. She took us through the tick and thing if it all and also shared her takes on aspiring studentpreneur.

Interviewer: Good day, My name is Eniola, a member of the Assesa press. I would like to have a short interview session with you as regards being a studentpreneur. We see that you’re a student and you’re still able to merge academics and business and we commend you for that. Without further ado, can you introduce yourself and tell us what you do?

Folathreadings: Thank you very much. My name is Adewuyi Folashade, a 200 level student of Art and Social sciences Education, Edu/history to be precise. I’m into fashion designing but basically I make customized tote bags, bottles, beanies etc. My brand name is Folathreadings.

Interviewer: Folathreadings, Beautiful. So tell us how you started the business, I remember you said you are a fashion designer and that could have pushed you into making these wonderful customized pieces. Also, what year did you start officially?

Folathreadings: Okay. Let me start by saying I started this business in February 2021, the year we resumed as undergraduates of the university of Ibadan. I knew what I was coming for. I started this business alongside my academic journey and it’s been a smooth ride. Initially, getting customers was pretty difficult for me as there were lots of people into the business.  However, I didn’t give up, I remained consistent, I knew it’s a competitive business that demands you put in your best to get the best. Basically, being a fashion designer heightened my creative skills.

Interviewer: Fantastic! I’ve learnt something from what you said, “Don’t limit yourself”. There are a lot of people in the same business just like you, it’s your level of hard work, creativity and consistency that would make you stand out . 

Folathreadings: Thank you very much.

Interviewer: I know there is no business that doesn’t have its ups and downs. So, can you tell me, what are the difficulties and challenges you have experienced so far in this business or has it been a smooth ride?

Folathreadings: Basically, I have never experienced any difficulties or challenges in my business apart from when I started when it was difficult to get customers and that is expected but so far, it has been a smooth ride.

Interviewer: If not making customized products, what else would you have gone for? Also, what do you think makes you brand unique?  

Folathreadings: I’m a fashion designer because it’s what I learned initially, so it’s fashion designing. Also, the uniqueness of my business is the quality we give and we are always ready to serve our customers, making them comfortable and giving them the best.

Interviewer: What is your greatest motivation? What has made you stand on your toes all these years even during challenging times?

Folathreadings: I have been pushing my business because I don’t want to be broke, my greatest fear is poverty, the fear of poverty motivates me to put in all my energy.

Interviewer: Hmmm. To the last question. What advice would you give to potential studentpreneur?

Folathreadings: I would say that  ‘consistency is the key and giving up is never the option’.

Interviewer: That’s a strong word. Thanks for your time.

Folathreadings: I’m honoured.

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By: Eniola 

In this session of celebrating Assesaites who are making exploits in the world of entrepreneurship, Assesa Press has an interesting moment with Precious Oluwakayode, a 400-level student of the department who happens to be the brand owner of Colour Splash Ankara Design.

She took us through the foundation of it all, how she has walked the lane so far and the strategies that worked for her. She also shared some tips to aspiring or infant studentpreneurs which serves as a guide in their path. Below are the conversations

Eniola: My name is Eniola Ogundele, an Assesa Press Correspondence. I would like to meet you by knowing what you do.

Colour Splash: Thank you very much, my name is Precious Oluwakayode, I’m a student of the university of Ibadan from the department of Arts and social sciences Education, I’m also a finalist. I’m the brand owner of Colour Splash Ankara design 

At Colour Splash, we are into graphics designing, printing, branding and sales of Ankara fabrics and accessories such as hoodie making, Ankara bags, shoes , journal.

Eniola: Wow! This is really nice! I love the uniqueness. This is basically appreciation of the African print. However, what led you into making this especially the aspect of the hoodies, journals.

Colour Splash: Thank you very much for the question. Let me start with this, Colour Splash started officially on 30th of August 2021, we started off with Ankara fabrics, and one of the major things that attracted me to Ankara was the combination of vibrant colours and patterns. I loved the fact that they are combined with beautiful colours. Later on, I started making use of Ankara prints for graphic designs and this made it more unique and beautiful.

Actually, what birthed hoodies and journals is just for me to promote the Ankara prints. You know, in the past, people believed that Ankara is a local attire but now the story has changed. Ankara can be used for a couple of things like mugs, shoes, bed cover,cotton. It just has to do with putting your creativity into use. 

It’s just bringing life out of new ideas when they drop in our mind. So that’s all I can say. 

Eniola: Thank you very much, this is really insightful. All thanks to creative minds like you that saw the importance in our African heritage prints and chose to promote it. 

To the final question, how have you been able to merge both Academics and Business? I understand that it is quite strenuous and you need to find a balance. So are you blessed with some super strength that makes it so easy for you?

Colour Splash: Hmm, It has not been easy at all coupled with the fact that you would need to combine with other things but all I can say is about planning. There were many times I wanted to drop business for academics.

I remember when starting off, my parents were not in support of it, they thought I  was going into the business because I wanted to make money but it’s beyond that. It’s my passion, I love to do creative things. And for academics, I have to put in my best too. Whatever is worth doing at all, is worth doing well… Then, in the world that we are, people believe multi-tasking is not good but for me, it is really a good quality.

However, what still made me go further in this business is passion, I’ve had discouraging moments and all. Crossing to another option wasn’t easy for me but I had to go for it.

Eniola: What advice would you give to  studentpreneurs and the potential ones? 

Colour Splash: Many people are into business just to make money, however, money is very good but that shouldn’t be the drive. Rather, let passion push you, because there are moments you will not gain profits and you’ll receive discouragement from people, even your families. 

However, for my parents, I was able to convince them through my actions, consistency and that was what convicted them. Now, they’ve given me their full support. In a nutshell, go for what you love (a real business)  not a side hustle because it may leave in no time, but for a real business, you feel fulfilled when you achieve something great in your business.

Eniola: That’s a wonderful and encouraging voice. Thanks a lot for your time.

Colour Splash: Thanks for having me. It’s an honour.

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By: The Scribe

As Jaw War 2024 knocks the door once again, it is necessary to take a look at how Team Education is preparing for the biggest public speaking event in sub-saharan Africa. The President of Education Literary and Debating Society (ELDS), Isaac Adeniji, took us through the preparation of the team towards making a positive mark in this year’s outing. 

Scribe: Can you introduce yourself?

ELDS President: Alright, My name is Adeniji Isaac, a 400 level student of the department of Science and Technology Education. My teaching course is Mathematics. I am also the President of the Faculty of Education Literary and Debating Society (ELDS).

Scribe: Being the President of the Literary and Debating Society of the Largest Faculty in University of Ibadan, what can you say? How has it been so far?

ELDS President: It has not been easy to be honest but all Glory goes to God for his help so far and for where he is taking us.

I didn’t expect it to be like this but thank God for my fellow executives, we all have been trying our best to further progress the Society. And we believe that by God’s grace, we would have something to show for it.

Scribe: Alright. What can you say has changed in ELDS since the inception of your administration?

ELDS President: For starters, we had a bootcamp where we invited seasoned and experienced public speakers to come around and train our members and also a former President of the Literary and Debating Society was around on the last day in person of Adeleke Taiwo.

We also changed some inside things which might be changed soon though. We wanted to do more but there wasn’t enough time for us to do so. Hopefully, the next administration would raise the bar and uphold the legacy.

Scribe: Great. Coming straight to Jaw War. In the next couple of days, Jaw War is starting. For the past two seasons, Education’s record has not been favorable. The last time we had a nice outing was 3 sessions ago after we got knocked out by Arts at the Semis. How has preparations been to write a new story this time around?

ELDS President: It has not been an easy ride but by God’s grace, we hope to make God, our Faculty and ourselves proud this time. We are not saying we are the best but we want to leave an impact too.

Scribe: Is there a target for ELDS at this year’s Jaw War?

ELDS President: Like every constituency, we hope to return victorious from the competition.

Scribe: If I may ask, how has NUESA been supporting the ELDS on Jaw War ?

ELDS President: The President once asked me about our preparation and I told him we are doing our best. Then he mentioned that we should focus on the speeches while they focus on mobilizing people to come and support us so that they are available for us when we need their help.

So I would say they have been supportive because the basic thing NUESA can practically do for us is to mobilize educators to turn up and support us whenever we are presenting.

Scribe: Nice to hear. So, Educators should raise their hopes high ?

ELDS President: I didn’t say that but we are doing our best to make everyone proud.

Scribe: Do you see the Faculty of Technology as a force that can stop the qualification of Education towards the next round at this year’s Jaw War?

ELDS President: No constituency is to be underrated so all I can say is let us hope for the best and be positive and we charge you and all educators to put ELDS in our prayers.

Scribe: We all at Assesa Press, ASSE in general and Educators are rooting for you. We wish the team a very wonderful outing. Thanks alot for your time. We appreciate it

ELDS President: We say a very big thank you all and we hope that by God’s grace we would have a wonderful and favourable competition.

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By: The Scribe 

For the next couple of weeks in this semester, Assesa Press shall be dedicating this section of its weekly publication to celebrating fellow Assesaites who are expanding their width in terms of entrepreneurship.

In this section, we had a chat with Rufus Osunsami who is a Realtor. He took us through his walk and experience so far in this field. He also tried to explain the sides and turns of being a studentpreneur.

Scribe: Introduce yourself Sir 

Rufus Osunsami: My name is Rufus Osunsami, I am  a Realtor, I sell lands and properties. I am a 300lvl student of Arts and Social Sciences Education, History. 

Scribe: What will you say interests you most as an entrepreneur? 

Rufus Osunsami: I am a man of many interests actually. I have interest in politics (including governance), business, economics and personal finance  but the most important thing to me is value and growth. Regardless of what I do, I am particular about equipping myself with more value and getting better than I was yesterday.

Scribe: Briefly describe your walk to this stage of your business exploration.

Rufus Osunsami: In the past, I have tried to learn quite a number of skills because I was “pressured” by the fact that everyone is now a tech bro. I have also been a victim of a ponzi scheme in the name of finding more streams of income. I have run a mini poultry farm and different things before I  finally decided to be a Realtor.

Scribe: As an entrepreneur who seeks to expand the width of his enterprise, what do you think is important for an entrepreneur to grow in their chosen field?

Rufus Osunsami: Increase your body of knowledge, always up-skill! One thing we must all come to accept is the fact that the world is evolving very fast especially in our age and if you are not careful you will be left out of the development. There is always more to learn that can help you in your field, whether you are an entrepreneur or not.

Scribe: Greatest achievement and challenge so far?

Rufus Osunsami: Greatest achievement! Well, I think I pride myself more in my network, the quality of people I know and the amount of information I have been able to gather. Take away everything I have today, you cannot take away the knowledge and that’s my greatest achievement. About challenges, life generally is a challenge on its own and whatever I have faced, I don’t really see it as a challenge but just a part of the learning curve.

Scribe: How has it been juggling both academics and being an entrepreneur?

Rufus Osunsami: Like I do say, there would never really be a balance to life. The most important thing is to prioritize what matters to you at every moment. We all have visions and ambitions and that should determine what we prioritize. There is one destination but many routes.

Scribe: After your undergraduate programme in UI, do you see yourself going full into this chosen field or you’d like to further explore more?

Rufus Osunsami: I will go fully into real estate and at the same time explore more options. For me, I like the investment part of real estate which looks more passive in a way than other areas. That will give me an opportunity to also explore other interests I have, like politics.

Scribe: Your word/advice for fellow educators.

Rufus Osunsami: There seems to be an idea or should I say a wrong perception that people have about being an educator. This has somewhat  placed teachers in a box and affected our rating and prestige in the society. Join me as we change this narrative and let’s prove to Africans and the world that beyond the classrooms, we build the nation. Thank you.

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By: Ogunfolaju Olajumoke

In an interview session with one of the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the department, Oluwafemi Moyosore, a 300 level student of Arts and Social Science CLA, questions were asked concerning her role as the Image of the department;’s association, the Whatapp Tv and department social media

On questions surrounding her position as a PRO, she told us about the publicity team group which cuts across all levels for proper dissemination of information. In her words, “We’re still working on the content we will be posting on Twitter but for now, educational content is assured. I can’t say I will be posting daily or weekly on Twitter, it depends but I will give it my all to post frequently on the platform”.

“We planned on launching WhatsApp TV with Twitter but due to some reasons, we had to separate it. WhatsApp TV is my vision because I feel it will be a great thing if we do because we have the number. Other students from other departments will be allowed to view WhatsApp TV and it will be launched before the end of this month.”

The WhatsApp Tv has as such been launched on Sunday, October 22, 2023 with a host of contents and memes. She also explained further on the social media page present status.

“If you check the Instagram page recently, you will notice that we’ve been posting on it. An example is the Fresher’s orientation. I’m so glad that Assesaites are engaging. I don’t have plans of opening a Facebook page for the department as I feel Facebook is outdated. But, there might be a change later.”

“My achievement so far since I emerged as the PRO is the launching of Twitter and consistent birthday wishes. Assesaites should expect the best from me.”

She likewise advised Assesaites to ensure they engage the association’s social media pages for more educative and inspiring contents.

“My word to Assesaites is that they should try to participate and engage with our social media contents as it helps one to do better.”

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By: The Scribe

In this edition of our interview session featuring Faith Oyediran, the Chief Justice of the Faculty of Education Judicial council, he talk us through his objectives and plans for the council and how he intend to have a smooth administration in collaboration with the Central Executive Council (CEC) and the Faculty Legislative Council (FLC)

Scribe: Good evening Sir, we will like you to introduce yourself and your portfolio

Chief Judge: I’m Faith Oyediran, a 400 level student from Educational Management and the current Chief judge of the Faculty of education.

Scribe: Congratulations on your emergence as the Chief Justice of the Faculty Judicial Council.

Scribe: Did it ever occur to you at any point that you will attain this position?

No but when the need to nominate myself arose, I did so. In other to uphold the fairness and justice in NUESA

Scribe: What’s the first task you seek to execute as the Chief Judge?

Chief Judge: I intend to organise a seminar because all the members of the FJC are new to the system.

Scribe: Comment on the conversation that FJC is not necessary and the fact that some people see it as just a figure head unit.

Chief Judge: One of my main aims is to see that the FJC is recognized and respected in the faculty. Thus, showing her importance.

Scribe: How do you seek to transform FJC so that it meets the set expectations?

Chief Judge: Upholding the justice system and embedding the standard into every member.

Asking for the constitution to be revised to allow for an attorney general who would serve as a link between Nuesa members, executive and FJC.

Scribe: Should we place high hopes on FJC?

Chief Judge: I will do everything in my utmost ability to ensure the standard and goals of FJC are met in line with NUESA goals

Scribe: How do you tend to manage and ensure a smooth relationship between FJC and FLC, also FJC and CEC?

Chief Judge: I would communicate with any committee or bodies in line with my constitutional duties.

Scribe:What are your personal values that you hold dear?

Chief Judge: Honesty, Justice, Fairness and Equality

Scribe: Lastly, any word for Educators?

Chief Judge: As we are all equal before the law, let’s be careful to treat one another fairly and settle our little differences amicably.

Scribe: Thanks for your time, we wish you a purpose fulfilled tenure.

Chief Judge: Thanks

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By: The Scribe 

In an interactive session with Isaac Boluwatife, Nuesa FLC 12th Assembly Speaker, we made a round of discussion surrounding his office as the Speaker, his duo career as a student political and Journalist.

He also made mention of the ongoing Nuesa Constitution Review process and what it means. Below is the interview session between Assesa Press correspondence and the Speaker, Isaac Boluwatife (Senator Reformed).

Scribe: Good Morning Sir. We’ll like you to introduce yourself alongside your portfolio. 

Speaker: Alright. Good morning. My name is Rt. Hon. Isaac Boluwatife, politically known as Senator Reformed. I am a 400L student from the Department of Arts and Social Sciences Education. I am the Speaker of the Faculty of Education. Thanks. 

Scribe: You are the Speaker of the 12th Assembly of the largest Faculty in the entire Premier University which is quite huge.

I would like to ask if being the FLC Speaker is ever in your dream at any point in your life journey so far?

Speaker: Yes. As a freshman student in my 100 Level and a constant observer of the 8th and 9th Parliamentary sessions, I nurtured the ambition of one day becoming the FLC Speaker. This had been a long-standing goal of mine that I actively pursued. However, circumstances seemed to cast doubt on the realization of this dream. 

During the previous election, my department fielded a presidential candidate, a move that appeared to reduce my chances of becoming the Speaker. I shifted my focus and threw my support behind my department’s presidential candidate, essentially perishing my ambition of becoming the Speaker. Unfortunately, our efforts to secure the presidency were unsuccessful. 

This turn of events prompted me to revive my ambition of vying for the Speakership, with the aim of representing the interests of Assesites and giving them a voice within the Faculty. With the grace of God, I have since been actively involved in contributing positively to the faculty’s legislative processes and the overall development of NUESA. Thanks.

Scribe: Wow.. That’s nice. And this shows how much you’ve are always willing to serve for the common good.

As the Speaker of the Nuesa FLC 12th Assembly, the expectations on you are numerous considering your line of experience. Do you see this as a challenge?

Speaker: Thank you, sir. Yes, I do. And I see it as a challenge in the sense that challenges, to me, present opportunities that drive me to remain focused and committed to achieving my established goals. So, I welcome the challenge as much as it motivates me to stay dedicated and work diligently to accomplish my objectives.

Scribe: Alright. I can feel the enthusiasm in your expectations of these challenges.

If I may ask Sir, what are the strategies you have in place to ensure Nuesa FLC 12th Assembly is quite special and significant compared to the previous Assembly?

Speaker: Well, I believe that each assembly possesses its unique character, largely influenced by the Speaker’s vision and approach.

Previously, it appeared that educators were not fully aware of the existence of the FLC. However, the current assembly has made considerable strides in increasing educators’ awareness of the FLC by actively addressing pressing issues. Many educators now acknowledge the proactiveness of the 12th Assembly.

During my campaign for the Speaker position, I pledged to introduce reforms as I am a firm believer in the tenets of reformation. And part of these reforms includes the ongoing review of the NUESA Constitution, diligently being carried out by the Constitutional Review Committee. We are also working on ensuring that every educator has access to a copy of the Constitution, allowing them to be well-informed about their rights and privileges. 

In addition to this, we have revived the NUESA FLC Board to provide educators with regular updates related to the FLC. Another notable initiative is the conversion of the NUESA FLC Standing Orders into a digital format, marking a first in its history. These are just a few of the initiatives we have planned, with more programs in the pipeline. The hen, they say, sweats, but the feathers make the sweat indiscernible. Thanks.

Scribe: These are promising approaches and plans, we look forward to seeing them operate in full force. To chip in, When was the Nuesa Constitution last amended?

Speaker: 2018. That’s about 5 years ago.

Scribe: By the amendment of the Nuesa Constitution, how does it affect the constitution of departments in the Faculty of Education?

Speaker: Thank you. It affects in the sense that the NUESA Constitution serves as the guiding document for departmental constitutions. For instance, let’s consider Article 5, Section 5, Subsections I, II, and III of the NUESA Constitution, which clearly outlines the establishment, composition, and functions of the Departmental Consultative Council (DCC). Any attempt by a department to deviate from these provisions would be deemed null and void by the Constitution of the Faculty. 

This directly impacts the structure and operations of departmental constitutions. Therefore, one of the key reasons behind our Constitution review efforts is to grant departments greater autonomy in shaping the structure and functions of their legislative bodies.

Scribe: And, hope the departmental DCC are aware of this effect towards the constitution amendment?

Speaker: All the Chairpersons of the Departmental Consultative Council (DCC) are automatically members of the FLC with the exception of ASSE. In the case of ASSE, this happened due to my role as the Speaker. And according to the Constitution, a Majority Leader shall be the Chairman/Chairperson of the DCC in respective departments. So, they should be aware. In fact, a release would be made public concerning that, purposely to gather everyone’s inputs.

Scribe: That’s good. The inclusion of a well broadcasted press release should be a primary target of the information dissemination.

Speaker: Yes. Thanks sir.

Scribe: Away from that. What’s your submission on the new Chief Judge – Faith Oyediran – of Nuesa Judiciary?

Speaker: My submission? I believe he is a competent mind with a strong commitment to learning. I premise this on his approval by the FLC, which signifies his competence. The FLC, known for its discerning judgment, would not approve someone not competent enough as the Chief Justice.

Moreover, since his emergence — as a first-time member who recognizes that learning is an ongoing process — he has sought my guidance to understand the intricacies of the FJC, considering that I previously served at the FJC during my second year as the Judge, representing ASE.

Scribe: That sounds nice. Learning is of course an ongoing process.

In a twist Sir, how have you been maintaining and juggling through being a Student Politician and Mainstream Journalist?

Speaker: Managing my time effectively and setting clear priorities are key in balancing the two. It’s all about finding the right balance and staying dedicated.

I operate my registered media platform alongside my remote work for an international media outlet, all while actively participating in campus politics.  Juggling these responsibilities with campus politics can be very demanding, but it’s my commitment to careful planning and maintaining a strong sense of priority that keeps me going.

Scribe: That’s huge. But I feel the dedication to both shows how  passionate you are about both. Do you think you won’t have to forgo one for another at a point owing to some circumstances?

Speaker: I can’t. I have a brilliant team working for me who greatly ease my workload.

Scribe: Really?  That sounds affirmative and confident. What are some of your qualities you hold dear that have kept you going over the recent years?

Speaker: Some of the qualities that I hold dear are: integrity, ability to multitask, determination, adaptability, a strong work ethic, and a positive mindset.

Scribe: Nice.. Do an imaginary forecast, where do you see yourself in the next 5-10 years?

Speaker: I see myself being a representative of the people, whether as a federal honourable member or as a Senator, while also establishing one of the world’s leading media organizations.

Scribe: That’s amazing, and I wish you a successful career

Here’s a game of choice. If you are told to pick one; Being a Famous Politician or Renowned Journalist, which one will you opt for?

Speaker: I’d pick being a famous Politician. And the reason is, it is one thing to advocate for reforms, but another thing to effect the reforms. As a journalist, one can only write — and continue writing — for the advocacy of societal reforms but as a politician, you have the power to bring into fruition, that which one desires.

Scribe: That’s a valid submission Sir. Finally, what do you want to say to Educators?

Speaker: Greatest Educators, I want to use this medium to appreciate you all for the essential baking given this current assembly ab initio.

Please be rest assured that this current assembly will not renege on its promise of giving quality representation to you all. We shall do our best to etch our name in gold.

Scribe: Thank you. Thanks for your time. We really appreciate it Sir. We wish you the very best in your tenure as the Speaker, Nuesa FLC 12th Assembly and also the very best in your career. Thanks so much for having me.

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By: Josephine Awomodu and Ayinke

Following the stretch of the Teaching Practice sixth week which avoidably falls to the fifth week of academic resumption, student teachers share their opinion on the hurdles and how the teaching practice has affected their academic activities in one way or the other. Note that interviewees were randomly chosen and not specifically. 

The Teaching practice is so unnecessary because I have multiple tests this week. Knowing classes in the borrowed courses department were not put on hold even made me more angry and I don’t know how to handle the classes I have missed so far. 

       – Olabode Ayobami (Bampsy), 400 Level

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The scheduling of the teaching practice is conflicting with my books because I had to leave school and come for my TP at home as my teaching school is at Apata. Thinking of the notes I missed and the lecture explanation I will never get again is depressing. I look to get notes from the majors and probably do a little research on them, but it will help if I could get an audio recording of the missed classes. 

                                                                                                               –  Ozor Gabriel, 400 Level

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This week’s Teaching Practice is unnecessary and I don’t think it really worth it. I don’t feel good about missing classes as I definitely know that I am missing something. I would just have to borrow notes to cover up. 

                                                                                                                            – Isaiah, 300 Level

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This last week of TP makes me feel so tired because I have a test next week in which classes have been ongoing. As it is, I’m going to miss three of the course’s classes this week.

– Omolara, 300 Level

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I just dey come and go for this TP because I can’t see the essence of it. I have not been writing lesson notes and likewise, I have not been attending classes as my English classes always fall in the morning.

– Samuel, 300 Level

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By: The Scribe and Kreative Ace

Our interview with Asido Campus Network, UI President continues from where we stopped last week. Here, she talked more on issues surrounding mental health awareness in Nigeria and also the event on the 30th of this month.

TK: So Asido Campus Network, University of Ibadan only operates in the University of Ibadan?

Asido President: Yes. There’s an Asido Campus Network in OAU, we have in UNILAG, we have LAUTECH, there’s one coming up in Lead City. Then we have one in Abu Zaria, there’s one in FUNAAB, I’ve mentioned LAUTECH and there’s in LASU.

TK: Okay so based on all these Events you have this September like the health day, the oratory contest and stage play. I want to talk about how accessible it is for people. Which ones are free or is there a ticket fee or something like that? 

Asido President: The Health day is free for anybody that can come and it’s at the SUB car park but, we make registration compulsory because we want to be able to reach out to people. 

TK:Is it prior to the day? 

Asido President: You can actually register at the event but we usually prefer that you register before the event, so that we can properly plan and cater for the people. But anybody is welcome to the event and you checked up properly. The only thing we request is that if you’re given a response like the data that we got from the check up, try as much as possible to follow. They will refer you because we are not like professionals. So, of course we will refer you to professionals that can help you.

Professionals will handle the health day but there are some ailments that can not be handled on the spot. The health day is on the 23rd. About the Oratory contest preliminary, ten halls of residence are competing. That’s all the Halls of Residence including Alexander Brown Hall. And so we are having the preliminary on the 16th and registration is of course compulsory but anybody can come because of course it is free. And during that preliminary is when of course some Halls of residence get knocked out then others will progress. 

The main event, that’s the Oratory contest final and the stage play is happening at Trenchard Hall and it is ticketed unfortunately. Ticketed because you understand the economic situation. We have to pay for all logistics, production and things like that. And we are currently running on personal funds. The dues from ambassadors, donations from kind people. We don’t necessarily have money somewhere. So the ticket that we use to pay for the costume and it is 1500 for regular, 5000 VIP. 

TK: Okay. So where can people get this ticket because what if someone isn’t an Asido member 

Asido President: Okay so we have ambassadors in the Faculty and the way it works is that there’s a link, so you’ll just fill the form, you pay to our account, you’ll upload the receipt to the Google form and once we check through, we see either your Faculty or your Hall of residence. Somebody will check and let it get to you. And you prefer not to be reached out prior to that day, you can reach to, there’s a number on the flyer. When you pay for the ticket, you can reach out to them and request to pick up your ticket at the venue. But we actually prefer for people to get their ticket before the event to avoid issues of no more space.

TK: So that means there are limited tickets? I mean, there is a limited number of people you’re expecting for the event 

Asido President: Yes, we try as much as possible to restrict, of course Trenchard hall has a definite capacity we cannot exceed that capacity. Once we reach that capacity, we can no longer accept. 

TK: Okay thank you. So the issue of mental health in Nigeria, what do you think can be done because Nigeria is actually backward in the issue of mental health and there are a lot of misconceptions and if you go online, you’ll see a lot of people misinterpreting mental health. So from the Nigerian point of view, what do you think the government or anybody can do to actually fast track the awareness and development? 

Asido President: One of the major achievements that advocacy for non-governmental organizations like Asido Campus Network and Asido Foundation have been able to achieve is the fact that the last administration, President Mohammadu Buhari’s administration finally signed the mental health bill into law. So prior to that, Nigeria was using none which mean that one of the major argument against that law was that people who try to die by suicide, instead of getting treatment, they’re put into jail for a year. So they have to be imprisoned for a year as punishment. 

Now the mental health bill has removed all of that and it has actually solidified the place of non-profit organizations and individuals and organizations in fostering the mental health of people. But we understand in Nigeria that there’s law and then there’s implementation of law. So it is not just enough for us to have all of these laws, we also have to ensure that they’re properly implemented and beyond implementation, we are also ensuring that there’s proper mental health Education. 

For example, in the University of Ibadan, the University of Ibadan has mental health care. Strangely, very few students know about it and that shows us how much people don’t actually have access to the services that are even available. And then of course, we also have the issue of not enough professionals and resources available. But even the ones that are available, few people know about them. Few people actually like to go. So we need the government to implement the policies that they’ve made. We need organizations and institutions to work in implementing those policies and incorporating it into their own organizational rules and structure where every brand, every organization that has an employee should have a psychologist in their team. 

As individuals too, we should try as much as possible not to stigmatize others and discriminate against people. You hear things like psycho, mad all of those things to people that use mental illnesses as fancy words, they’re not fancy words, they are illnesses that people struggled with and when we use them wrongly, it somehow increases the stigma and discrimination and gets people that are affected.

TK: While you were talking, you mentioned that the University of Ibadan has mental health care. Where is the location of that? 

Asido President: Okay. At Jaja, there’s a medical social work and the medical social workers are there. They have a psychologist on board and when they assess the person, depending on the security of the person, they’ll book the person for a mental health training. There’s a mental health training on Tuesdays, where a psychiatrist comes from UCH to assess students.

TK: Okay thank you very much. You’ve really said a lot and I really appreciate it. So in just a short sentence, what advocacy or what word or what kind of piece of advice do you have for UI students? 

Asido President: If I’m saying one thing to UI students. So I’ll say that every student should ensure that they engage in self-care. They work as much as possible to foster and boost their own well-being and ensure that they have optimal health. And in cases where they feel like their mental health or their general well-being is not as good as it used to be, they should not hesitate to seek help. 

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By: The Scribe

Upon the inauguration of a new set of executives, Assesa Pressure had an encounter with the President, Agoye Femi, on his plans, the administration’s plans and expectations.

Scribe: I’ll like you to introduce yourself

President: Good evening, I’m Agoye Femi, a final year student and President of the Arts and Social Sciences Education Students Association.

Scribe: Alright, Mr President. Thanks for the introduction. Straight up, I will like you to give a brief roundup on why the inauguration happened in the 3rd week of academic session

President: Thank you. The inauguration of the new administration was delayed mainly because of  legalities that had to be resolved at the discretion of the Departmental Staff Adviser . Everything has been ironed with the authority

Scribe: Nice to have the Team MAXIMUM on board officially. Notably, I would like to ask the ‘why’ behind the theme “Maximum”?

President: The theme “Maximum ” is borne out of drive and passion to maximize the quality inherent in the association and her members. We don’t intend to change the status quo but re-define what the association has to offer through the delivery of our primary responsibilities, programs and events during the course of the session.

Scribe: I’ll be eagerly looking forward to seeing this mission come into play. For the first three weeks of resumption, as you guys have not been sworn in, how were you engaging Freshers or what were you doing to help them finetune their ways within the department, faculty and university at large?

President: Our team organized an online orientation for the departmental freshmen on their WhatsApp platform in early September. The history of the department, its full meaning and clarity was brought in by differentiating between Edu/Cla, Edu/Pos and ASSE , units/ courses offered in the department .

Information was also given out on how to go about departmental and faculty registration, payment of dues across faculties, department and halls of residence. The freshmen were taught how to calculate their CGPA, and a list of courses for the various units/ courses were also included. A level representative was also elected for the freshmen.

Scribe: Wow. Really interesting. Upon your inauguration, what is the first thing your administration seeks to achieve?

President: Well, we want to organize a befitting orientation and welcome program for our freshmen. Our wonderful finalists should also be anticipating a program that would benefit them academically

Scribe: So, Freshers should be expecting a top notch Freshers’ Welcome?

President: Of course. The program promises to be enlightening and entertaining and the same time giving our freshmen a space for socializing

Scribe: I’m sure our freshmen will be looking forward to that. On Tutorial, it was a shadow of itself last session. What should we be expecting under your administration?

President: I can confidently tell you that we already started tutorials for our freshmen two weeks ago with a fair turnout. Unfortunately, it could not be held last week because of recruitment for tutors. Materials for various courses are regularly dispersed especially the Education courses

Perhaps Assesaites are not aware causing the low turnout. But to start the tutorial was a brilliant move

Scribe: As of culture, Assesaites are known to have high expectations of what an administration will deliver. Are you aware of this and does this put you in a tight spot?

President: Thank you. Of course, personally, I owe it to the friends and well wishers who put me in this capacity to serve them and their interests. I don’t feel like I am in a tight spot because I am committed to achieving all our targets and plans as a team which is the minimum to express my gratitude for being in a position to serve.

Scribe: Good. Impressive to be aware of that. On Transcript, Assesaites have gotten their transcripts and as of old, there are issues again. Is there a way you think your team can approach this and bring into effect a change?

President: Well, it is a systematic anomaly we have in the University. We intend to meet the H.O.D and Staff Adviser to come about resolutions to make transcript collection and error rectification more efficient and fast.

Scribe: Alright, we’ll be looking forward to the implementation. When should we be expecting the Freshers’ Orientation?

President: The program will be happening by the end of the month.

Scribe: Thanks for your time.

President: Thanks for having me.

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By: Ayinke the skinny girl

As the department’s literary and debating society kick starts the new session with a new administration, Assesa Press correspondence engage the President, Balogun Rahamt in a bid to know the current status and plans of the ‘Society’

Scott: Good evening, Ma. I am Ayinke from Assesa Press.

Rahmat: Good evening, how may I help you

Scott: When did you assume power as the president of Assesa L&D and you took over from who?

Rahmat: September 3rd. From Alade Testimony

Scott: I want to believe that you are aware that the most dysfunctional society in the department is L&D

Rahmat: And what is your proof for saying that?

Scott: You have been a member of Asse L&D for how long Ma?

Rahmat: You have not answered me. Since 100 level

Scott: How many competitions has Asse L&D participated in since you have been a member? And how many times has any  member of the society represented the department in any competition?

Rahmat: A lot. Though I can’t remember the exact number but I remember we participated in Tug of words numerous times, King of podium, We participated at Emsa LnD day and we also had intra-option debate

Scott: In the past sessions a lot of Assesites have expressed their displeasure at the abilities of the society, words have it that the society is merely breathing and may be dead soon.

Rahmat: I would like to inform those spreading those rumours to be careful of whatever they’re saying because it may come back to hunt them and I’d like them to verify their words and thoughts before taking action.

Scott: At the last TUG of Words which I witnessed, the performance of the representative was not really a good tale and hence the administration could have proven the acclaimed rumours to be true. With a population as big as ASSE, we would believe the best of the best should be representatives and a lot of options should be available.

Rahmat: We all know the time for the tug of words was close to test and exam period if I’m correct and as a student your primary assignment would be on your mind at this very period, so to have participated in any extracurricular activities at that point in time, I’d really commend those that came out to speak and not speak ill of them.

Scott: Tug of words, Jaw war and various activities are activities that are usually given ample time for preparations.

Rahmat: As a pressman I know when it’s a few weeks to exam you minimize your engagements with extra curricular and concentrate more on your primary assignment. So I’d like you to put yourself in their shoes. As an educator in their penultimate or final year, you know how the drill is, so I guess this was what happened

Scott: Well I don’t quite get your view, and I would not want to bore you with the woes of the past administration but still I will like to ask, the last administration at the beginning of their administration used the first semester of the administration to recruit members and yet the resultant wasn’t all too beautiful do you know why that must have happened?

Rahmat: Well, maybe the past administrator can answer this question better than I can do

Scott: Okay ma. How would you rate the past administration on a scale of 1-10

Rahmat: Uneasy they say lies the head that wears a crown, I would not rate the administration because I didn’t know what they faced, it’s until I have worn their shoes and experience what they experienced before I can judge them

Scott: What are your plans for this administration?

Rahmat: I and my Cabinet members plan to do our utmost best for the association because we know we can’t be perfect but we’ll try our very best till then end

Scott: Are measures in place to recruit members because none has been noticed as regards recruitment of members?

Rahmat: Yes

Scott: Any reason why it hasn’t started?

Rahmat: We just assumed position in less than two weeks, we had to put everything in order so that there won’t be hitches later on

Scott: Alright, Ma. I wish you a hitch free administration

Rahmat: Thank you so much

Scott: Thanks for the time and patience, Ma

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By: The Scribe and Kreative Ace

TK: Good Evening. I’ll just like you to say your name and your department and any other information you want to add 

Asido President: Okay I’m Tawakalt Olaoluwa and I’m the President of Asido Campus Network, University of Ibadan. I’m a student of the department of Psychology. 

TK: So on Asido Campus, I just want to ask what birthed the whole event you plan to do this month? I mean the foundation of it. 

Asido President: Asido Campus Network is a mental health advocacy club, so it means that we organize Outreaches, events, seminars, conduct researches on Mental Health and since 2020 that we registered, we’ve done more of Outreaches, seminars, webinars, partnerships with Halls of Residence in UI. But we realize that it is a different thing when you talk about it in an academic manner. When you’re doing a seminar or you’re doing an outreach, it kind of put a gap because it’s you speaking to people but umm when you include art, it allows you to put umm, there’s social commentary, there’s critiquing and then it sparks a conversation in a way that umm just talking might not necessarily be able to do. 

So we decided that we want to do something new, we want to use artistic expression to talk about mental health in a way that the regular person can understand and the first thing that we decided we were going to do was we decided to have a health day. So the idea of the health day is that most times, when people think of mental health, they think of it as isolation of health, but we understand that true health is like a combination of physical health and mental health. So the idea behind the health day is people get tested as they check their vitals, HIV testings and their health status

It is supposed to be a mental health assessment, and then at the end of the day, they go through all of these results, and give them health advice and then refer them to professionals in the University health services depending on the condition of the person and the signs they can see. And also, the idea of the oratory contest, if I can remember correctly is ‘Sincerly Speaking Suicide’. We realize that in the University of Ibadan, public speaking is a very very big deal. People are interested in listening to people talk about societal issues and when people listen to them talk, it kind of sparks a conversation about those issues. So, we decided that we were going to have an inter-hall oratory contest. 

The idea, the planning for the Oratory contest actually started in the previous administration. But we could not execute it because there was a strike last year and we had to postpone the event. So the Oratory contest is meant to be an opportunity for representative from all the Halls of Residence in UI to think about Mental health and Suicide in a different light, in a way that regular students like themselves can understand and discuss it and in the process, they can be able to start a conversation about those topics that people generally don’t like to talk about. So that was the idea behind the Oratory contest. 

But then, we also realize that okay, we’re having an oratory contest, it’s still speaking. We need something that can show people how it feels like when people have mental health challenges. What are their experiences, what are their thoughts, what are their feelings. So, ‘Matters that Matters’ is an artistic expression that combines drama, public speaking. It combines music, it combines dance and it combines all of these things in a way that you are able to use it to discuss the topic that people most likely do not want to talk about. 

Mental health is rooted in stigma and discrimination but people don’t want to talk about it. So we want to use it to discuss the issue if mental health and suicide because it’s related and because September is the World Suicide Prevention Month. The theme for this year is ‘Creating Hope Through Action’. So we’re using our actions to create hope in the hearts of people that regardless of the situation you’re going through, we understand you, we can relate to you and other people who have had similar challenges. There’s a community for you, you are not alone. 

We are trying to pass information like that so that more people can get to talk about mental health issues, reach out to people, talk about it, get help that foster an optimal mental wellbeing for themselves and for people around them and we can build a community of students where the wellbeing of another person is not their business alone, it is everybody’s business. And that’s why we picked the theme ‘Matters that Matters’ because the issues that we’re discussing are matters that matter, they’re issues that we should be talking about, we should be addressing but we’ve been failing to address it for so long and it’s time for us to discuss.

TK: Okay. Alright, thank you. So from what you’ve said, I can actually point out that people actually have different perspectives about mental health. Do you feel this issue of you trying to correct (because I see you’re trying to proffer a solution to a problem), do you feel it is something ASIDO can handle alone?

Asido President: So you’re saying with what our goal and our vision is, is it something that we think that we can achieve? 

TK: Yes, to a large extent 

Asido President: No, because health is a general context and mental health is not something that one person can address alone. So it is why over the course of our existence in the University of Ibadan, we’ve had partnership with stakeholders in the University from the University Health services, Youth friendly center, Student Affairs, Student Union, Halls of Residence in UI and Faculties in UI. 

Most times, if you’re seeing a hall or a faculty having an event that is health related, they’re most likely from Asido Campus Network because we know that it is not something we can achieve alone. It can only be achieved through partnerships and most people when they think about mental health, they think that it is not my concern but it is everybody’s concern. Not just the government, not just organizations, not brands, not NGOs, even individuals, everybody is involved because it is something that affects me, it affects you. 

When people think of mental health, they think of it in terms of mental illness but there’s a difference. Mental health is a continuum. It is not that I’m mentally healthy. Everybody is on a continuum and our stage, our point, our status are on the continuum, it varies with situations. So I might be in a very bad mood today doesn’t mean I cannot recover. Somebody can be depressed today, with treatment they can recover. So, it is a continuum and it is not something that one person is on that end and I’m on this end. 

Mental health is difficult to effectively address with proper care because it is something that you oftentimes cannot see. If you have a physical injury, I can see it as you’re walking in. I can address it. But then, even despite that, we still see people that discriminate, that stigmatize even the physical illness that we can see how much more the mental illnesses that we cannot see and because it is a continuum like I said again, it means that anybody can be at any point in time and that is why it is something that we have to address, because addressing it, mean that more people get to join and we get to collaborate, partner and work on it together. 

TK: Alright, I want to digress a bit to Asido members. As members of Asido Campus Network, what have they been doing? Personally, I got to know about Asido through a friend in the faculty and I don’t know how people really know Asido Campus Network in the University of Ibadan. So, are there also any programs that Asido runs that publicize her existence? 

Asido President: Okay. Asido Campus Network has been formally registered since 2020.

TK: In the University of Ibadan? 

Asido President: Yes, since we’ve registered, we have the Blue Bake Fundraising event and we raise funds and then donate those funds to help children that are living with Autism. This year, we raised three hundred and fourteen thousand naira (₦314,000) and we also donated at UCH. Apart from our fundraising event we have seminars and conferences where we discuss mental health issues. 

We also have sessions, we have outreaches sort of. So we do outreach to secondary schools. We’ve had an outreach at Abaddina. We do outreaches to Faculties. We do outreach where we invite the general public. We don’t just also do academic events alone, we have hangouts and so during the hangouts, we don’t just have the regular hangouts where we have fun, we have fun of course, but we use the opportunity to learn coping mechanisms to manage stress. So we’ve had a series of sessions that address different areas of mental illness and we will continue to go. So in terms of publicity, I would say we’ve been there. 

So partnership has been helping us to really increase our publicity and we saw that in the year before, there was a category for the best student organization in UI and we came 3rd and considering the fact that we are going against clubs that have been in existence for a long period like Sigma, JCI, Itech and so on, that has given us a testament of the fact that people know us and they see that they see our activities, they see the impact we’ve been able to have. How much we’ve been able to reach out to people and the fact that we are committed to doing more to ensure that more students get access to quality mental health care and they are motivated and encouraged to not just speak up but actually like to seek help. We are doing all of these things to ensure that we’re impacting coping mechanisms, we’re impacting knowledge. 

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By: The Scribe

In this first publication, we had an interview with Blessing Iyanu Opeyemi, an English Education graduate of the department, Arts and Social Science Education with First Class Honours. Besides, she is one of the three first class graduates of the department (2021/2022 session). She took us through the beatings of the 4-year road and unheard sounds behind her recent feat.

Scribe: Can you tell us your name in full? You can include your nickname (if you have one)

Blessing: I’m Blessing Iyanu OPEYEMI. Nickname? Okay.  Soph, a derivative of Sophia.

Scribe: Sophia, Wow. That’s lovely. Is Sophia one of your other names?

Blessing: Yes. A self-given name. Long story but I loved it, I adopted it.

Scribe: Alright.. You did well by adopting a beautiful name. Can you briefly tell us of your academic journey till you gain admission to UI?

Blessing: Okay. I grew up in Ondo state. Ikare Akoko to be precise. That was where I had my primary and Secondary School education. I attended Lennon Jubilee High School, Ikare, Akoko and graduated in 2015. ( Those were good days, talking about it now is nostalgic).  So, in 2014, I already did the Nov/Dec WASSCE GCE and had my results in 2014 when I was in  SSS2 and I wrote Jamb in 2015 when I was writing the May/June WASSCE. I was really pumped that I was going to the university the next year. 

I was young, life was beautiful and I was ready to take it. I chose OAU, Ife and wanted to study Law. After the Post UTME, I was some marks short and that was it. Before that, I was so confident I was getting into Ife even if it’s not going to be Law, so I didn’t register for the Jamb in 2016. So, registered for  Jamb in 2017, Ife never again. I chose UI and I picked English Education. That was it.

Scribe: Hmm. Everyone with a long line of history prior to University admission. Thanks for that. I would have loved to ask if picking UI and English/Education was your dream, but now I can see it wasn’t. It’s nice you didn’t give up. Because of my eagerness, I will just go straight to this question. What was the secret behind your achievement as a First Class Student?

Blessing: Okay. God first. God takes all the glory. Then, as much as I know, I write well. Like I express myself well in writing (for examinations). Then the regular reading, attending classes, studying with part questions, asking questions when it gets difficult understanding a concept. Just the regular school routine actually. Nothing I can basically call a secret as it were. 

Scribe: And it’s quite evident that your normal routine in which you believed in worked well for you.

Blessing: Glory to God, really.

Scribe: Was there at any point in time you believed you could graduate with a First Class Honour?

Blessing: Yes, absolutely. As a new student in 100L, I had a lot of “You can do it” conversations on making a first class. I have been  working towards it since my First year. Although I had a really bad academic year in my third year, even then, I was really making an effort to make a first class. So it wasn’t something that happened by chance.

Scribe: Third year has always been showing every UI student series of ‘sheges’. But I sense you already channel your mind to the belief that you are going to make First Class. And I’m sure this really helped?

Blessing: It did. It really did. In addition to having people that were looking up to me to make it. My parents and some friends. Third year for me was a lot. The online class did a number of things and I was really distracted. I had lost the zeal for school and I really struggled mentally. So it took a toll on my academics. 

Scribe: I can feel the struggle within your words and I’m quite glad it didn’t affect the end result. That shows how much you must have put into it all.

Blessing: Thank you. I am really glad too. I’m forever grateful for that.

Scribe: If I may ask, how did you feel when the university’s senate list was released or you already knew you made First Class ?

Blessing: I didn’t know. We didn’t see our 400L results. Oh My God. I can’t describe the way I felt. I wanted it so badly that I screamed, jumped,and danced. I had to check and recheck. I knew I was close to it but I wasn’t too sure because of my 300L result. 

Scribe: Wow. I can feel the paintings of the atmosphere. As an education student, ASE precisely, who had to take courses both in Education and Arts, considering the workload and stress, how were you able to navigate through it all?

Blessing: Navigating the classes wasn’t bad at all and my English classes were interesting and easier to pass for me compared to my departmental courses. It wasn’t a problem at all. It was stressful, yes but it wasn’t something I was doing alone. So, it wasn’t so bad.

Scribe: I can feel the enthusiasm. It seems you really like English as a course? 

Blessing: I do. I really do.

Scribe: Away from academics.. You were a member of Assesa Press during your undergraduate. What made you join and did you ever regret joining?

Blessing: My joining ASSESA Press was a quite unusual one. I wasn’t interested in joining at first. But the E in C for the 2017/2018 set, Shade was in English Education. So, she advised me to join. I was reluctant at first because paradoxically I do not like writing. I didn’t join in 100L but I joined when Karshams took over. So, basically both E in C made me join the press and over time I fell in love with it. I had no regrets. None whatsoever. I wish I could have done more instead.

Scribe: Such a nice drive. Did you join any other organization aside from Assesa Press or did you market anything as an entrepreneur?

Blessing: I was also an ambassador of Asido Campus Network, University of Ibadan. A student led organization for mental health awareness and

Scribe: It’s quite a good example that you didn’t just make yourself 100% academic, but still involved in other extra activities which are so rewarding. That will be a great example for others to learn from. Your advice for every student of the department and education as a whole?

Blessing: Thank you very much. The hack to life is in the very simple things. I’ll say as students, they should make the most of the moment. Every class, assignments, tests count and they make what you have at the  end of the day. So, you should be as serious with them as you can be. Having good grades does not happen by chance. You have to be deliberate. Also, don’t follow the bandwagon of “This course is too hard, people fail it”, it’s a fear that kills before the fight.  Make sure you give your best.

Sometimes, you may not get the grade you think you deserve in some courses but that should not deter you from giving your best the next time in other courses and just live through it with your mind in it, it’ll be over before you know it. The things you do now will determine whether you’ll look back in regrets or not.

Scribe: This is strong and really concise.We wish you well in your path to success and we trust that you have a wonderful career ahead of you. Thanks for your time

Blessing: Thank you. Thank you for having me, I’m honoured. 

MENTOR OF THE WEEK: HON. GUCCI

By: Temitayo OJEDIRAN(Herald)

Can we meet you?

Good Evening, my name is Sakariyu Waris Ajibola, a 300l student of Counselling and Human Development Studies, the General secretary of NUESA UI and the coordinator of Seyi Makinde Campus Ambassador(UI)

Most people call you Gucci, What`s behind the name?

I got the name on my first day in School. That day, we were having our hall registration and I was on the queue while a friend tried to call me, but because we are still not familiar with each other`s name, the guy called me Ankara Gucci because I was wearing Ankara and surprisingly it became a trademark(Politically) It was changed to Hon. Gucci when I was serving  as an Honourable member in Ransome Kuti hall.

Tell us basically about your love/passion for politics/leadership/power

My love for politics can`t be expressed with words. I have so much enjoyed discussions about politics since childhood, but I`ve never thought I would overcome the fear of participating in politics. At some point, I will see myself becoming a teacher, at another moment, I would think of becoming a pastor, but one path that I`ve been successful with is politics. The road has not been smooth , but despite the challenges and unpleasing moments, my love for politics kept waxing strong. I love politics, but I`m scared of power because of the mindset attached (intoxication), but I`ve gotten a solution towards the general negative mindset, which is “Character” So, I have gotten the knowledge of how to differentiate between being a ruler and a leader. I love to lead by feeling the piercing pain from the journey before my loyalist. If you can handle your character and make it better, I would advise you to participate in politics so we can prolong the existence of good governance and caring leaders.

Take us through all the leadership/political positions you have occupied before Ui and in Ui

• Assistant Senior Prefect, Adewuni Model College 2015-2016
• Floor rep, Ransome Kuti hall, Students` representative council, UI 2018-2019
• Member of Finance Committee, Ransome Kuti hall, SRC UI. 2018-2019
• Honourable member, Ransome Kuti, UI 2020-2021
• Deputy Speaker Ransome Kuti hall, UI 2020-2021
• Member Transport Complaint Committee, Students` Union 2021
• Representative of CHDS at Faculty of Education Legislative Council
• Chairman, FLC disciplinary Committee
• General Secretary, NUESA UI
• Coordinator, Seyi Makinde campus Ambassador

How were you able to cope with functioning in so many offices and your academics?

There is time for everything, time to read and time to lead. I`ve done some training on time management, and it has aided my diligence.

Checking through the positions you said you have served, you are the coordinator for Gov. Seyi Makinde campus Ambassador, how did you emerge as the coordinator and what does your office entails?

Undoubtedly, Gov. Seyi Makinde is one of the most loved politicians because of his outstanding style of governance. In respect of this unusual positive attitude of Nigeria politicians, led to why the movement was created by Hon. Victor Olojede(Special Assistant to the Governor on student affairs), I was elected as the coordinator amidst two opponents.

Since my emergence , we have had lots of engagement which includes vocational training of our member, hangout and victory dinner with his Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde.

This movement equally contributed to the success of Gov. Seyi Makinde re-election via inter-hall campaign and election day canvassing.

Before the end of this year, we are looking towards hosting a massive leadership conference that will aid students unionism effectiveness.

A video of you was online recently where you were giving a speech in the presence of the Governor, what did you tell Mr. Governor?

That was at the victory dinner with the governor, I saw that day as the best moment to communicate the fear of the people towards the second term to him. Many people believe that he may stop being good after his re-election. I told the governor to keep threading the path of good character. He shouldn`t stop making the pensioners, Civil servants happy and also should ensure he keeps being the want of the students anytime any day. I was fulfilled telling him all that, I was so happy when the governor was clapping for me. It`s definitely going to stay in my head for long.

What is your happiest/saddest day  since you got to UI?

My happiest day was on the day I won my election as the general secretary of NUESA UI.

My saddest day was when I heard the news of Richards Gbadebo`s death(The UIte that died at Henkel Company during ASUU strike)

Its political season, What should UITES expect from you?

I have learn and unlearn concepts in leadership, So I believe its high time I should presidentially see to the welfare of educators.

What advice do you have for students especially fresher`s who want to walk the path of politics/leadership?

Our primary assignment in Ui is our academics. You can definitely discover another path because one of the importance of education is to make you understand your potential, but irrespective of the side hustling, political engagement or even social events, don`t ever toy with your parents interest which is your academics.

Give us your parting shot

In all you do, value your dignity and mental health.

MENTOR OF THE WEEK: COLOUR SPLASH

By: Temitayo OJEDIRAN(Herald)

Can we meet you?

My name is Precious Oluwakayode, 300l student of Arts and Social Sciences Education(CLA option) I`m into graphics design and Ankara dealings.

Do you do this two things being a student or just a side hustle?

I am the Creative Executive Officerof Colour Splash (CSAD World). Basically, its not a side hustle, it’s a business and I am into it fully.

How has it been combining business with Academics?

I have to say, it has not been easy. But when something is your passion you just see your see doing it even with the school workload.

When did you start your business?

Before UI,  I never knew business was going to be my thing although I have always been a business oriented person. Before Colour Splash, I had once venture into something which was the selling of snacks although this was just a side hustle.

The idea of Colour Splash started like 2020 or thereabout during COVID but I started it fully in 2021.

What inspires you to start a graphics design and Ankara business?

I love beautiful colours, the right combination of colours.

What are the challenges that you have faced so far?

My first challenge is my parent because they believe as student, doing two things together. When they found out that this Graphics design and Ankara dealings is not just a side hustle they were really concerned that it will affect my academics, I had to lower the pace/ energy I was putting in my business.

Another challenge is getting capital, like I said my parents were not really in total support when I started so I started with little or no Capital.

What keeps you going?

I love what I am doing.

Also, God is my inspiration because I sought His face before starting and He gave me the go-ahead. Seeing the progress so far shows God is involved, if God is involve why should I want to stop.

What advice do you give to students who want to have a business or something doing aside from Academics?

Having a brand is beyond you just starting something, you need to know what you love and also include God.

What are the services your brand offers?

Graphics design, Printing, frameworks, ankara fabrics, Ankara tote bags and soon we are going to start ankara accessories (Ankara bags e.t.c)

For  the training, I have been having personal trainings and I have written a book on Graphics designing for people who want to start or are into graphics designing.

How can people reach you?

For graphics: Fb>Coloursplash   IG> Coloursplashdesign

For Ankara: Fb> Coloursplash  Ankara  IG> Colour Splash Ankara

Twitter: Colour Splash AD

Give us your parting shot

Whatever is worth doing is worth doing well

By: Temitayo OJEDIRAN(Herald)

MENTOR OF THE WEEK: TAIWO BABATUNDE DORCAS

Can we meet you?

My name is Taiwo BABATUNDE, 400l student of Adult Education combining with Communication and Language Art. Aside from being a student, I am a content creator, Linkedin Marketer, I help business owners create engaging contents that convert into sales.

How are you coping with it knowing that you are still a student?

It has actually not been so easy but I ensure it is something I love plus it’s something I feel I could fall back to even after leaving school moreover this is what I do to foot my bills.

How do you earn specifically?

I create contents for brands, creating digital products and sell. As I am creating these contents for other brands, I also build my personal brand, I teach people how  to optimize Linkedin, how it can fetch them money.

How do you  balance your Academics with content creation?

I prioritize. I create my contents early in the morning and I devote my afternoon and evening for school work. I don`t spend too much time on Social media. I set goals daily and I ensure I stick to it.

What advice do you have for Undergraduates who want to involve in other extracurricular activities?

Subject yourself to Learning, there is a reason while L comes before Earning. People will not pay novice, You have to be very good at what you do, know exactly what you want and get a coach or a mentor and gain mastery.

Do you mentor people on how to earn online?

Yes, I do.

How can People reach you for these services?

Linkedin> Taiwo Babatunde. IG> @taiwo_babatunde. FB> Taiwo Babatunde Dorcas. Whatsapp> 08103357686

What advice do you have for students who wants to earn while studying and how can they combing earning with Academics?

Know your strengths and weaknesses. Do things that you love, if you can`t go into business, you can acquire digital skills such as video creation, email marketing. e.t.c You can start confused but don`t end confused.

Give us your parting shot

Never rely on anyone to make a headway for you rather make your way so you can head your way.

By: Temitayo OJEDIRAN(Herald)

Can we meet you?

Hi, my name is Adeleke Taiwo Motunrayo. I’m a final year student of the department of Counseling and Human Development Studies. I’m a public speaker, I’m currently the director of speech and training of the Education Literary and Debating Society. I own a Fashion brand named June Line and I’m a storyteller.

What really makes Taiwo different? Obviously, you are an outstanding personality, tell us the special things about you.

Well, I believe anything is possible. I’m a dreamer and I believe I can achieve anything I dream. I also put in the hardwork to make the dreams work and then there’s God, never letting me down. I hope I have been able to answer your question.

Taiwo and public speaking?

Tell us about the journey so far?

I’ll say that I enjoyed the graciousness of people who trusted me even when they hadn’t particularly heard me speak. If these guys hadn’t believed in me and worked to train me, there would not be an ‘Adeleke Taiwo’ in UI public speaking today.

Of course, I desired to be a stellar public speaker and I put in the work. I took every opportunity I had to represent my department or faculty during 100 level and 200 level and it paid off. The exposure I got from the competitions made me better and I’m grateful for it. I have winnings in my name because of all these and it’s something I’m always glad about.

How are you able to combine public speaking and Academics together?

Honestly, it can be very overwhelming, however, I believe if your heart is in something, you’ll find the time for it. I’ve bunked classes for competitions before but I always make sure I get the notes and explanations from my colleagues. Sometimes I’m writing a speech and it takes so much time and I have to rush through assignments at the last minute but I always ensure that my school work don’t suffer. Whatever extra time I spend on speech writing and ELDS affairs, I try to do extra with my school work too. We cannot but make sacrifices here and there for the things you love.

Most Uites can not forget one of speeches in Jaw war, Loading, Loading…

Can you say something about it, what were you trying to achieve?

That speech was borne in naivety, I just wanted us to win but I didn’t even know how to write a proper debate speech yet. The ‘loading’ part wasn’t initially the structure of the speech. It was just in a  paragraph where it was shabbily constructed. Our speech coach at the time saw it and told me to work on that paragraph and make it better. I kept rewriting it but he wasn’t particularly pleased with it. In one of those meetings, he told me to make that paragraph the structure of the speech and gave me a template. I worked on it but he and other members of the ELDS kept telling me to work on it so it can get better. So a tweak here, and a tweak there, that speech was borne. A lot of hardwork went into the speech and I’m proud of the success I was able to achieve with it.

Tell us your happiest day in UI and the other way round.

My saddest moment would be when Jaw War Semifinals 2018. Also, when we lost the finals of Black History debate sometime in 2018 or 2019.

My happiest (read as proudest) was when i finished delivering the ‘loading’ speech and the whole crowd gave me this deafeaning applause. It felt so unreal and gave me goosebumps

What should Educators expect in this Year’s jaw war as Faculty of Education has been paired with Faculty of Agriculture?

We always bring our A-game to competitions. Educators should be assured that our victory will be a delight to watch on that day.

Tell us briefly about other things you do, your brand and the story telling part.

With my brand June Line, I make and design clothes for women who choose to be fashionable. I’m also a fashion stylist.

For the story telling part, I wouldn’t want to give details for now.

What advice will you give to Freshers, as they are  new and they may want to explore for the realization of their potentials?

Dream high. Take risks. Acquire skills. If you have a valid dream, don’t take ‘no’ for an answer until you get there.

Give us your parting shot.

Don’t be afraid of taking risks. Don’t be afraid of starting again. Embrace Change. Introspect; find yourself. Be a good person. Enjoy life in the little things.

Thank you so much.

You’re welcome.

AN INTERVIEW WITH AYINDE OLUWABUNMI DAVID

By: Ojediran Temitayo (Herald)

Hi , can we meet you?

Good evening. I am AyindeOluwabunmi David politically known as Davi Cruise , a penultimate student of the department of Arts and Social Sciences education (Political Science option). I’m the Incumbent Social Director of the Faculty of Education and a former Assistant general secretary of the great ASE department. I am also a studentpreneur.

Okay, how did you come about your nickname?

I get this question a lot. The name ‘Çruise’ was gotten from my Uncle. He’s my mentor and I love him so much. He is Israel and calls himself Izzycruise. I am David and so I decided to go with Davi Cruise.  I guess it fits my type of person too.

Tell us your type of person

David is a positive minded person who looks for positivity in all things. I’ve been told I’m intelligent and generous. I feel like I’m responsible for my own happiness and I have realistic expectations of myself. Davi Cruise on the other hand just wants to have fun and meet people.

Great!!!

Typically, you are a cruise person that still knows what he’s doing, how then did politics set in? Being the AGS of the department in your first year and then current SD of the Faculty

Surprisingly, people think anyone who plays a lot aren’t also prudent. My Dad, He’s a lover of politics and a politician. I loved politics because my dad would never miss the 9pm AIT news and 10pm TVC news when I was growing up. I had no choice but to sit with him else I’ll be sent to bed early. Growing older, I and my dad would sit and discuss on trivial issues affecting the country and solutions. My interest grew, I loved the subject government and also graduated as the Best graduating student in government from my secondary school Alma mater . I knew I was going to go into main stream politics and the university politics is a training ground for me. I want to effect change.

Wow!!!, That means you had your plans even before coming to the first and the best

Yes, I made findings. Departmental level to Faculty level to Student Union level. So help me God.

How was it for you trying to do politics, face your academics and also Catch the cruise?

Overwhelming I must say. Sometimes it looks like politics is taking so much of your time and you’ve forgotten why you’re in the university of Ibadan, sometimes you face your academics so much that you neglect your political goals, sometimes you find yourself playing too much and neglecting others.  It takes self-discipline and God’s grace that I’m still doing well in my academics, holding a political position and still catching my cruise.

Was emerging the AGS of the department last session an easy thing?

Tell us the lessons learnt

Nothing good comes easy. It wasn’t rosy starting from the campaign processes. I remember my phone got spoilt while campaigning and I’d have to lend my friend’s (Aquila and Daniel) phone to send BCs. Administration also wasn’t easy although the office of the AGS in the department has minor duties but one still needed to devote time and be available to students. I learnt how to strictly schedule time and work with them. I also learnt leadership skills through my fellow executives who were also my seniors.

Rate your performance as the then AGS

I rate my performance 6.5\10 because I didn’t really have lot of duties to perform but the ones I had, I did them well and also delegated duties.

How did you feel when you were announced as the social director in the last Faculty election?

Elated and Loved. Elated because it’s my second election and I won. Loved because of how i won and the number of people who voted me. I always put that at the back of mind and I won’t disappoint them.

Did you see yourself as the better candidate?

Yes, always.

My fear wasn’t if I was the better candidate or not. It was if I’d win or not because sometimes, the better candidates don’t win.

Hmmm. True

How’s the journey being so far as the Social director?

It’s been beautiful. I have amazing executives. We always remind ourselves on why we were elected and why we need to perform our duties well. Big, big pressure to deliver but we handle it well.

Fulfilled any of your manifesto?

I’ve held the freshest fresher contest in the freshers welcome. It was supposed to start online and move to physical but there wasn’t too much time to do that. Fresher of the week should start this week. There’s a gyration coming up on the 16th of this month also. Others will come into fruition in second semester by God’s grace.

After social director, what next?

A student Union position if God says yes. I don’t think I’m allowed to say it now but Davi Cruise is COMING.

What advice will you give Freshers who want to explore their interests but not jeopardize their primary aim in Ui?

1. Always communicate with your parents. They constantly remind you of who you are and what you should do.
2. Good friends: My friends especially in the department have saved me countless times by always calling me to order when I’m deviating.
3. Academics first. No one will listen to interests from someone who doesn’t take studies seriously.
4. Don’t get carried away by Fame. That’s where point 1 and 2 comes in .
5. Always ask God to direct your steps

Give us your parting Shot

Hard work and determination pays. What keeps me going is this – Try again until you win.

Thank you very much.

By: Ojediran Temitayo(Herald)

MENTOR OF THE WEEK: OMOTUNDE OLADOTUN (SPORTMAN)

Let’s meet you

 My name is Omotunde Oladotun Oluwadamilola. I’m from ogun state, born and bred in Ibadan.

How would you describe your Academic sojourn in the University of Ibadan?

Full of ups and downs to be honest but it’s actually a nice experience. It was the first time I left my father’s roof and staying with people that are not my family. Staying and meeting with different opinions and character is sometimes frustrating but I learnt to adapt and that’s actually a big experience for me.

Let’s assume you are not in Ui where will you be by now?

Probably in one academy trying to go pro. I was actually training before I came to UI but I doubt whether my parents would allow that because education has been the main priority.

Film academy? Or Dance academy?

Football

Where did you and Football meet?

Omo e don tey o. Primary school sha, I do follow my uncle to football field and I wanted to be like him.

What was your uncle like?

He’s the older brother I never had. He loves playing and goofing around, he actually wanted to play football but he was not successful.

How has playing football been for you on campus?

Very good tbh. I love every single moment of it although sometimes the results are not in favor of my team sometimes but everything na lesson.

What is your happiest day as a footballer in Ui?

I don’t know the one to choose though. It’s actually between winning Dean’s cup with my department or winning inter-hall. I’d go with inter-hall though because I won the highest goal scorer too.

How many medals do you have as a football and can you highlight them?

8 in total

Give us the summary

• 1 gold medal faculty’s dean’s cup
• 1 silver medal faculty’s dean’s cup
• 1 gold medal inter-hall
• 1Silver medal 200l survival cup.
• 1 silver medal zik hall’s interfloor
• 1 gold medal highest goal scorer inter-hall
• 1 gold medal highest goal scorer 200l survival’s cup
• 1 bronze medal interfloor

Can remember your best goal so far in Ui? Tell us about it

Definitely the one i scored against sociology 200l survival’s cup. We were losing 2-1 and the referee signalled to us that we have 5 minutes extra time. I scored a beautiful volley and we later one the game before the 5 minutes elapsed and I scored the winning goal too that took us to the final of the competition that day. I’ve scored better goals to be honest but the importance of that goal that day made it my best goal ever cuz most people don’t know our department and they actually underated us but we show them what we’re made of in that competition.

I also scored one overhead kick goal in our semis against tedder. I enjoyed that one too because it was the lone goal that took us to the final

What’s your plan as a football enthusiast?

This country is not encouraging for young boys trying to play go pro. But anyhow e be sha If I see opportunity sha, I’ll try and pursue a career in football.

What advice will you give to new students who love sports, how can they combine academics with sport?

It’s not easy to be honest, but education should be the priority because that’s the main thing but they should find time to do the sports they love because all works and no play makes jack a dull boy but they should try their best not to let it affect their studies

Give us your parting shot

Thanks for the interview and a big thanks to assesaites that has been supporting the our department in good times and bad times. Hopefully, we would defend our dean’s cup title in flying colors.

By: Ojediran Temitayo

MENTOR OF THE WEEK: OLALEYE TOYIN .J (HUMANITARIAN)

Can we meet you?

I am Olaleye Toyin James(Ayoife), a 300l student of University of Ibadan, department of Early Childhood and Educational Foundations. I am from Ogbomosho North.

What else do you do aside being a student of UI?

I am a baker, I do bake doughnuts in a factory and I am a humanitarian crusader representing different NGOs across Nigeria.

Can you share little of your experience as a humanitarian crusader representing different NGOs?

As an Early Childhood expert, It is my responsibility to ensure every child around the world live a better life, with this passion  I have for children, I can only achieve this by joining different organizations putting children`s care as their priority. So far so good, God has been helping me with different team mates to carry out some tasks given to us.

Can you share your best moment since you started this humanitarian work?

Hmm, Service to humanity is the only great service we can render to human being in this life. My best moment outreach so far is OVI, Orphanage Visiting Initiative, this is an initiative established by IBI foundation aimed to share love and care to the children at the orphanage homes across the 36states on the 1^st of October in every year, as a state representative (OYO state) I took part of this initiative this year and I got an award of a best state representative.

Have you ever regretted being a humanitarian or your worst day as a humanitarian?

Not at all.  All things are being equal every blessed day.

You have never encountered any challenges so far?

NO

When do you plan to have your own personal initiative?

I have one already called Our Hope of Tomorrow Initiative (OHOTI) Even the name is just like an umbrella, different activities are under it.

Can you shed more light?

Our Hope of Tomorrow Initiative is a name given to my personal business in future, just like I said early, it is like an umbrella with different activities, part of the activities are: 1) Our Hope of Tomorrow Initiative as a playing garden for Children. 2)As an NGO overseeing the less privilege children around the country.3) As an hospital, where children will be treated for free.

Has the Initiative done any project of reaching out to the less privilege?

Yes. As an Ngo we have done different activities to reach out to the less privilege children.

Can you specify please?

In the year 2020, we started our activities by reaching out to the Orphanage homes called Jesus Children Mission Outreach at New Bodija here in Ibadan, we have reached out to the children at Sabo Community Mokola area we gave the children slippers to wear, we discovered those children don`t put on slippers and it is dangerous to their health.

If I may ask, how do you combine this humanitarian work with your academics?

In everything we are doing in this life, let always put God first. God has been faithful all the way. That is what I can say.

How can people join your organization?

OHOTI is free and open to anybody any day any time, so far you have the zeal for service.

How can people who also wish to involve in humanitarian work combine it their academics?

Well, once they have passion in what they are doing, it will not affect their studies because anything we have passion for will be easy for us to relate with studies.

Assesa Press met with the department’s Head Of Department, Professor Fakeye where issues that concern Assesaites were spread to light for clear and better clarification. Below is the full conversation.

ASSESA PRESS

Congratulations on becoming the HOD. Before the strike we had a different HOD, after strike we have a new one. What is the duration for serving as the Head of Department?

H.O.D

Thank You. I welcome you all to this interactive session, the regulation guiding the appointment of head of department is that if you are not a professor, you will be accorded as an acting Head of Department for a maximum of two years, if you are a professor, you are allowed to be a full HOD and not acting, you are eligible to spend the first two years and the VC can renew your tenure for another two years which makes it 4 years. This year July, the tenure of the immediate HOD elapse and everyone was expecting that the VC will renew another two years to make it 4 years but he (immediate HOD) said he was no longer interested. Like I too, after serving two years I won’t be interested because it is an office that is so demanding. The office is so demanding, this morning Some of your students (direct entry), having teaching subjects in CLA said a particular lecturer sent them out that they should go and delete the course because he won’t accommodate them, so I have to go and address that issue first, I had to leave the meeting I have because that’s more important than the meeting I wanted to attend. So I came back to the meeting, spent about 25 minutes before going to see someone else. It’s a demanding thing as a HOD which is why you only see a Professor spending two years because he is not interested in a second term but he is eligible to spend 4 years at maximum.

ASSESA PRESS

Thank you very much Sir.

Freshers are complaining of class clashing which is actually not new to 200 – 400 Assesaites. The question is how can this be limited in a way that students won’t be losing at both ends?

H.O.D

The issue is a system problem. As long as University of Ibadan is practicing the act of time table being done by faculties there is no way there won’t be clashing of courses. I did my first degree in Ife (Obafemi Awolowo University), Ife is a great model on how time table should be drawn, time table is handled centrally in Ife and all timetable is in the office of the director of academic planning. It is his duty to run time table for all courses in the university and make sure no course clashes with another, especially education courses not clashing with sciences, arts and social sciences. We told the VC and he said with time UI will get there (I don’t know when).

What we can do is that, through the instrumentality of NUESA, you can make submission through NUESA which will then be forwarded to the Dean who will take it up to the committee of Deans and Provosts where they can make possible resolutions. Like I received a report of STE 353 clashing with Cla 301 where the former course lecturer said there might be test after each class and the latter course lecturer will not allow them to come in once they are late. So, I think when the matter is taken up by the Dean and being considered at the Meeting of committee of Deans and Provosts, MAYBE there can be solution.

Also, it’s reported of the kind of treatment they give to our students. They (other faculties) are always envious of us, even in Ife where there was no course clashing, we do score highest in the same course we offer with them and we are in Education, maybe because of the Jamb cut off which is sometimes low for education courses, although in some cases courses like Education and English usually have a higher cut off mark than pure English.

By the time we prove to them that we are the Lord of the class, they will know. All the three first class produced in English (including me) during my time in Ife were all from Education.It’s also good that our students prove themselves to them so that they don’t think because we are Education Students that we are inferior. Another thing is that they know you have two chances as you can work in anywhere an average B.A (for Arts) or B.Sc (for Social Sciences) work and at same time, you can also teach. In their own case, before they can be admitted into the teaching profession, they have to do PGDE. You are the only one that can change the narratives by performing well.

ASSESA PRESS

There are issues regarding the missing of courses on the transcript. 400lv students have not being seeing Gce101 and some other courses on their transcript and people have written and lodge complains regards how it is going to be resolved. How can this be settled Sir?

H.O.D

The problem lies with the introduction of RMS (Result Management System), a lot of courses have been uploaded that we don’t see but I have noted that down and I will send message to the course lecturer to re-upload from 2017/2018 session so that it can cover all current students.

ASSESA PRESS

Will the 400 level students receive a message once it has been uploaded?

H.O.D

Their transcripts will be uploaded and updated. Now that you’ve told me, I will tell Dr. Babalola, who is in charge of our online result to go and check for updated Gce101 results from the 2017/2018 academic session till date. I have also ordered the department secretary to update all transcripts including the ones that was uploaded during the holiday and she has embarked on that since yesterday.

ASSESA PRESS

The next one is of the finalists who has not been assigned Project Supervisors . What is the current situation Sir?

H.O.D

We are in a department of three units; Language, Art and Social Sciences. The allocation for language has already been done but I tarried a bit because the department is recruiting two new staffs which we have concluded the process since last week Friday. So when they resume next week, because I have already put their names on the allocation, they will supervise some students and the list have not been released because they are yet to officially resume. But by the time they are on ground hopefully by Monday or Tuesday. Meanwhile I will inform those in charge of Social Sciences to submit on Monday so that by Monday we can process it. A copy of the list will be dropped at the Assesa secretariat.

ASSESA PRESS

There is an observation that those in CLA option are usually introduced to English courses in their 300l(Eng 301 and Eng303). The observation is that these two courses are advance courses and students of CLA option don’t have the basic knowledge or foundation.

H.O.D

Why we did it was to enhance the marketability of students. When we were having the review of curriculum, we deliberately put two English courses (Syntax and Phonology) so that in their transcript at the end of the day, they might want to take a program which require having English courses in their transcript. What I will rather do (although I don’t need to tell you) is that I will make those courses required rather than compulsory in sense that even if a student fails it, it won’t have to be retaken again or affect their graduation. And this change can only happen when we make a review because I’m planning to do a curriculum review. There is even a course in which they made mistake, Cef403, which was written as a compulsory course rather than required. It is a required course and not compulsory, same applicable to STE353. Before I came in, some students were unable to graduate because of failing one or both of these courses. But don’t worry, the review will be in the interest of the students. The goal is to make the students more resourceful in the job seeking market. We are even planning to include some Literature courses for CLA option students. I think what will be done in the nearest future is removing one out of Phonology or Syntax and replace it with a literature course.

ASSESA PRESS

The departmental brochure which is meant to guide us is now misleading us in some cases. There are some courses in the brochure which are not available any morel. How can this be reshaped Sir?

H.O.D

Our problem is in the Faculty of Arts, the rate at which they change courses is very high. What we need to do is that I will instruct that they should go to every department of our options in Art and get their current list of courses so that it can be aligned with what we have, I will set a committee that will review these courses so that they can help us upgrade our brochure.

ASSESA PRESS

There are some students in which the course they were admitted by Jamb is different from what the university gave them. Any way out of this Sir ?

H.O.D

Let me see one of them to know what happened and what they are doing about it because we have to know. They should bring their admission letter and the course they got registered for. So that if we need to write a letter to the admission office that they should desist from that because at the point of graduation when such go for NYSC, NYSC will always look at their admission letter and see what they have done in school which such differences can then create problem.

ASSESA PRESS

We are done. We just want to thank you very much for this opportunity and its observed from looking at the pictures of past HOD of the department that Prof. Ajiboye didn’t spend up to 2 years as the Head of the department.

H.O.D

Yes, Prof. Ajiboye came in 2015 and left in 2016 because he had a federal appointment as a member of the TRCN board. If I also have an appointment now, I will leave this place once and for all. If I get an appointment to be a chairman of a whole commission in Abuja, I will leave here.

ASSESA PRESS

Thank you very much sir

H.O.D

You are welcome

Interviewers: Temitayo OJEDIRAN, Blessing OPEYEMi, Joshua FAGBEMI, Peace FOLARIN.

L-r FAGBEMI Joshua (Assesa press features editor), Blessing OPEYEMI(News editor, AssesaPress), Prof David FAKEYE(Head of Department), Temitayo OJEDIRAN (AssesaPress Editor-in-Chief)

By: FPO

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) started an industrial strike on the 14th of February, 2022 due to failure of the government to heed to their demands, it lasted till the 13th of October, 2022 lasting about 8 months. It must be noted that there have been 16 strikes in the past 23 years. So during these strikes what happens to students?
Knowing fully well that an idle hand is the devil’s workshop, some students decided to find the blessing in this reoccurring disappointment by keeping themselves busy with learning digital skills and learning hand work. Some got temporary jobs while some spent the 8 months strike enjoying the comforts of their father’s house.
The recurring strike had both negative and positive impacts. We gathered the opinion of some students to know if the last ASUU strike was just a waste of their time or a blessing in disguise for them.

Omolayo Ayomide; “For me, it’s both coz I was able to do certain things that are best kept to myself when I went home buh it’s also a waste of time too coz I could have been through with my studies this year as a final year student, moving on to the next phase of my life but that isn’t possible anymore now coz of the long strike. So it’s both for me”

Awah Enobong: “At first for me, it was a waste of time, then later became a blessing in disguise for me”
Adekola Hallelujah: “You can choose make use of both and be product. You can be productive in both. So I’ll say yes and no”

Olamide Marvellous: “Humanly ASUU strike was a waste of time but I know God knows best”
Olasunmbo Morenikeji: Its a blessing in disguise for me because I earned a lot of money than I expected”
Dele Alonge: “It was a blessing on disguise because it opened my eyes to life after school and it made me improve on some qualities that made me self dependent and made me set priorities right”

Oluwafunmilayo Esther: “It’s a waste of time because the time we are meant to be in school we are at home doing nothing. So we are already meant to be a graduate by now but due to the strike ko work out. Basically it’s a waste of time because students involved can’t move forward they are just hooked in one place. It’s also a blessing because during the strike some people where able to achieve something in which if they were in school they wouldn’t have achieved that somewhere able to discover their talent, some went to learn work and some venture into tech stuff . So to me ASUU strike na both waste of time and blessing in disguise”

By: Ojediran Temitayo (Herald)
MENTOR OF THE WEEK: IKONWI GODDOING ( Egalitarian Movement UI)

Can we meet you?

I’m Ikonwi Goddoing Bariedoora, popularly and politically known as Comrade Goddybest.A 300L student of the department of adult education/political science .I’m the current academic and Welfare director of faculty of Education, University of Ibadan. Also, I’m the secretary of University of Ibadan academic committee. An honorable member of the University of Ibadan Students, Representative Council (UISRC).And finally, the convener and founder of The Egalitarian Movement, UI.

What’s Egalitarian movement all about?

TEAM GODDYBEST is an EGALITARIAN MOVEMENT that is, we support and believe on the principle of equality. Secondly, we render HUMANITARIAN SERVICES. Rendering help and reaching out to people in all faculties in UI and even extended. We also reach out to street children and visit orphanage homes. We are also very interested in building student’s entrepreneurs and those who don’t even have a skill, to acquire one through our free skill acquisition programs we do organize every session. After the training, we also sponsor the trainees to go and learn more about the skill.

How were you able to come up with this initiative and how have you been coping with it?

Well, it has been God all the way, sir.
We started this movement right from my 100L days. Precisely, it was officially founded on the 30th of October 2019.Because when I gained admission into Ui, I came with different goals and target, I really wanted to impact my environment and people around me. And I guess I’m trying my little best today in all aspects.

What keeps you going?

Determination to impact lives and to render humanitarian services to the society and people around me. Also, I really want to render quality leadership in all positions I’m holding or contesting for in the nearest future. Then lastly, my sister, she is my inspiration.

What about your sister?

My sister is my little wife for now. I love her so much, and I share almost everything with her. She is the last baby of the house. My mom and dad left her at a very tender age (age 5) so since then, I took over every burden of my family as the first born. My sister have really been supportive in everything. I’m always proud of her because she doesn’t take any effort for granted.
How have you been able to source for funds to keep Egalitarian movement active and relevant?
It has really not been easy, but we thank God for always using people to sponsor most of our programs. In the Egalitarian Movement, we have our members, executive members and stakeholder forum members, staff advisers, mentor and patron. All these people come together to sponsor most of our activities.
Again, I have most of my political mentors and admirers who believe so much in me, so they sponsor most of our activities too. Personally, I also use my resources for most of our activities.

You made mention of you starting Egalitarian Movement since 100l, how did you cope as a fresher, combining academics with Humanitarian service and even up till now?

Omo, e no easy, but I thank God for everything today. Like I said earlier, I’m not in Ui for just for studies alone, I came with different goals and targets and I’m still pursuing them till date. I was so determined to make a better change in this citadel of learning and beyond. In doing all these, I still have that consciousness that the primary reason why I’m here is to study, I never neglected my primary purpose of being here. When it is time to read, I’m surely going to read. I’m always trying as much as possible to balance up my academic with my leadership positions without prejudice to one or the other, most especially in my building construction work and painting. Because I’m also the CEO of GODDYBEST BUILDING CONSTRUCTION AND ASSOCIATES (A Building Construction Firm).

Are Uites open to joining your organization?

Yes, any Uite can join this humanitarian organization. We have our members in all faculties in Ui and beyond. In fact, our recruitment form for the 2022 academic session is ongoing and it is going to close on the 14th of November, 2022. Anyone can join so far he/she is willing and ready to give back to the society and impact lives in his/her own little way. Our membership form is just #500 only. We believe on the principle of “Togetherness” To obtain the form: 09032103658 (Opemipo)

What advice will you give to Freshers who might be interested in joining but don’t know how to balance both academics and Humanitarian work?

First of all, they should sit down well and talk to themselves personally. Look, it’s not about joining different organizations oo, it’s about balancing everything together. Ask yourself few questions. Can I be able to balance up my academic with this? Can I cope? Can I make impact through this? Because it’s very important to know what you are going for. As at today, I, Comr. Goddybest can’t join any organization without making any impact. If they are able to answer those questions above well and their answers are yes, then they are good to go, and if the answers are no, then they should still sit well and work on themselves.

Give us your parting shot.

I just want to encourage all students to keep striving and never to be discouraged no matter what. Look, “Success is not final; failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.”For me, “It is better to fail in originality than to succeed in imitation.”Let’s us all learn how to believe in ourselves and contribute our quotas to the society no matter how little. God bless University of Ibadan !!! God bless all Uites !!!

Mentor of the week

By John Herald

The ASSESA press mentor of the week is Bodunde Ebenezer Olayemi (p.k.a Speaking Eben). He’s a public speaker, a student politician and a one time president of the faculty of science before his resignation. In this intervie, he talks about his studentship, his brand name and public speaking career, how he became a student politician until his resignation.

ASSESA PRESS: Can we meet you ?

SPEAKING EBEN:Okay, thank you. My name is Bodunde Ebenezer Olayemi popularly known as SpeakingEben.

I am a 400L student of the Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Ibadan.

ASSESA PRESS: Tell us the story behind the name speaking Eben

SPEAKING EBEN: Ohhh😌The name “SpeakingEben” originated from within. I’ve been a debater since my Secondary school days and when I got to University of Ibadan, I had to pause since READING was the order of the day for any fresher. It got to a point in 2019, I was in 200L then, I suddenly felt this zeal and passion to start public speaking again and this led me to joining my Hall, Department and Faculty literary and debating society and by the Grace of God, I’ve done well in that area with many awards.

This name came into play one day when I was thinking of a brand name I could give myself. I once named myself “Fingers of David” because I play the piano but at that point, I know I needed a name in the public speaking sphere. The first name that came to my mind was “EbenSpeaks” and with joy in my heart, I went online to look up the name and to my surprise, I saw an American motivational speaker bear that name. I kept thinking and thinking again and then BOOM!!!!!, the name “SpeakingEben” came from within. It sounded so cool and beautiful to me that I knew that was it. I looked it up online and discovered that it’s a Divine name for just ME.😌

ASSESA PRESS:How have you been able to cope with academics and speaking? Speech requires lot of time to prepare and all?

SPEAKING EBEN:Hmmmm. That’s a big question!!

Well, I must say it has not been easy and the truth is, you can only make this work if you set a scale of preference. There was a time I was opportuned to represent University of Ibadan in a debate competition and I had to go to Lagos for a week. I had to give my note to a friend to write it for me for that one week. There were periods I didn’t do my tests well because I had to prepare for Jaw war speeches. Things like that will come up, YES and that is why you have to do the extra. When I have few days to tests or exams, I devote myself to voracious reading because that’s the only way I cover up. At times like that, MTN and TDB together on a go looks normal to me and I do it…

As much as I love public speaking, Our Academics is our priority and we must try every best to get the best out of it.

ASSESA PRESS:At what point did politics come into Picture?

SPEAKING EBEN:Well, Politics has always been in the picture from day 1 but I only had one ambition, being the Faculty of Science PRESIDENT and that’s why I didn’t contest for any political post from 100L to 300L

ASSESA PRESS:Tell us more ,what have you been doing all this while before you finally contested?

SPEAKING EBEN:I’ve been doing what I do most. Speaking and building interpersonal relationship with people.

ASSESA PRESS:Recently, theres news that you resigned as the Faculty of Sciences president, can you tell us what really happened?

SPEAKING EBEN:Hmmm. It’s a whole lot and I wouldn’t like to talk much about it but I will say; Resigning was the best thing to do at that point.

SPEAKING EBEN:Can you just give like a snippet of the whole saga?

Well, at the time of the election, I was not a financial member of the institution and I wasn’t supposed to contest. Some documents were required to be submitted and I didn’t submit complete documents. To me, resignation is more honourable then disqualification and that is why I resigned.

ASSESA PRESS:What’s the next step?

SPEAKING EBEN:Next step????

Help the Faculty in the best way I can. Try to fulfil some of my plans that can be fulfilled with or without holding a position. Work on self development and keep the name going “SpeakingEben”

ASSESA PRESS:Yea

I personally know Speaking Eben before now. You organised a training one time like that last year

SPEAKING EBEN: Yes. It’s a global name.

Oh yes. Beyond Academics 1.0. Those that attended know it was super wonderful and some of them have not recovered from the experience.

We will be having Beyond Academics 2.0 this year, stay anticipating!

ASSESA PRESS: What advice do you have for UI students in general?

SPEAKING EBEN: Well, I will start by saying, “According to Nigeria Bureau of Statistics, 60% of graduates don’t use their certificates every year”. This is to say that 60 out of every 100 students don’t use their certificates.

While it is paramount and very important to read in 100L and have a good grade, it is also important we see Academics as a 50% chance for us.

 What sense does it make to put all our 100 on academics and then after our service to the country, we come back to look for job and when there’s no job, we learn a skill???

Why not pick up a skill or work on an already existing skill, passion or potential and take it along your school journey. I mean, have an alternative for academics such that if the certificate does not yield at the end, you can easily fall back on your alternative…

It is only unwise that you put your 100 on Academics, go for service, find job and after not seeing any, start fashion designing, use your NYSC allowance to pay for training, learn for two years before you start getting money…

It is wiser if you pick up the Fashion Design from your school days and if there’s no job after service year, you use your Allowee to get a good machine and you start getting money…

I hope the wise understood my illustration

ASSESA PRESS: Thank you for your time.