By Millicent Ifeanyichukwu
Minister of Education, Malam Adamu Adamu, has charged graduands of the Federal College of Education (Technical), Akoka, Lagos, to strive to contribute meaningfully to societal development.
Adamu gave the charge at the 38th combined convocation of the college on Saturday in Lagos.
The event held at the Paul Alabi Multipurpose Hall of the college.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the graduands comprised the 2017/2018, 2018/2019, 2019/2020, 2020/2021and 2021/2022 sets.
A total of 6,193 graduands from NCE full-time programme, Distance Learning Programme (DLP) and
Professional Diploma in Education (PDE) Programme.
“It is hoped that many of you would consider this feat a springboard to the next level of life accomplishment in the pursuit of higher education or establishment of business ventures where you would apply entrepreneurship skill which you acquired during your study.
“The aura and infectious enthusiasm pervading this convocation demonstrate the readiness of youths in this college to see themselves as instruments for the betterment of the society.
“Today marks the beginning of a new phase of life. You have been confirmed, certified and found worthy in character and learning to be admitted into the circle of scholars as holders of NCE, PDE,” he said.
He commended the governing council of the college for effective guidance and oversight which, he said, had taken the college to an enviable height.
The minister said that the college deserved appreciation for maintaining an atmosphere conducive for learning.
Adamu thanked Dr Wahab Azeez, the Provost of the college, and his management team for effectiveness.
While congratulating the graduating sets, Alhaji Adamu Muazu, the Chairman of the Governing Council of the college, described intellectual capacity as a great asset.
Muazu urged the graduands to use their knowledge to put the college on the world map.
“Make great efforts to influence the society by being creative, innovative and positive; be heroes of yourself, this institution, this country and the continent of Africa,” he urged.
Muazu noted that the school’s governing council and management had provided a conducive environment aimed at improving teaching and learning.
He said that completion of a TETFund building, expansion and improvement of existing classrooms and laboratories were commendable.
He also hailed improvement of hostel facilities, harmonious relationships with different staff unions and promotion of staff.
The Provost, Azeez, told the graduands: “As NCE and PDE graduands, you have yet another opportunity to climb the ladder of fulfilment and realisation.
“The certificate being awarded to you is not an end in itself but a means to an end. It is attestation of competence, professionalism, technical knowledge and skills you have acquired.
“You are, therefore, expected to apply the knowledge acquired from this college for the benefit of humanity,” he said.
He said that all the courses offered by the college had received full accreditation by the regulatory agency. (NAN)(www.nanews.ng)