Sights and Sounds of Excellence at the 77th Convocation Ceremony at University of Ibadan

 The University of Ibadan (UI) held its 77th Convocation Ceremony in November 2025, marking another important milestone in the history of Nigeria's premier university. This convocation was part of a series of events including the 77th Foundation Day celebrations. The convocation ceremony churned out about 5,900 graduates from all faculties, including the distance learning center receiving their degrees. Among these graduates, an impressive 448 earned First Class degrees, reflecting the university's commitment to high academic standards.

The convocation which spanned across several days commenced with graduands from faculties like Arts, Science, Basic Medical Sciences, Clinical Sciences, Public Health, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, marked the awarding of certificates to undergraduate and postgraduate programs, including Bachelor's , Postgraduates, Masters, and Doctorate degrees. The ceremony was graces by the attendance of several dignitaries including the university's Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kayode Adebowale, proud parents, faculty, staff, student representatives, and members of the press. The atmosphere was charged with pride, joy, and achievement, and celebrating the journey and dedication of the graduands.

The VC in his speech pointed out the graduands how the institution has trained them to seize every opportunity with confidence and integrity while identifying the national challenges and commending the resilient spirit of Nigerian scholars. He further went to praise the institution's Postgraduate College for producing key players in national and global development and pointed out how the establishment of a computing faculty positions the institution at the crux of digital innovation.

Also, Abel Adegoke, a UK-based medical practitioner and alumnus in this keynote speech encouraged the graduates to embrace resilience, integrity and see challenges as stepping stones to personal and professional development. He further urged them to go into the world not seeking jobs but as solutions creators.

Finally, Ayodeji Adeyemi, one of the graduates, Ayodeji Adeyemi from the European Studies Department, French unit, urged other students to truly portray the the University's motto, recte sapere fons which translates to "to think straight is the fount (source) of knowledge" and also look beyond certificates and prioritise other things that UI stood for.

Visually, the venue was vibrant with graduands clad in their academic gowns and caps, the halls decorated to honor this grand occasion. Hearkening to tradition, the processions, speeches, and the conferring of degrees created a powerful sense of community and accomplishment. The sounds of applause, congratulatory cheers, and ceremonial music gave a celebratory tone to the day's events. 

This was the 77th convocation since the establishment of the university, demonstrating its long-standing tradition of academic excellence and its impact on higher education in Nigeria. The convocation series included various academic and cultural activities such as lectures, award presentations, a research development fair, entrepreneurial events, and a night of music, creating a full and celebratory atmosphere.

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