The University Advancement Office, in collaboration with the Division of Student Affairs at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), hosted a two-day event aimed at boosting students’ experiences and academic performances. The event commenced on 19th November 2025 with a virtual Research Dissemination Workshop, and Day II, held on 20th November 2025, took place at the Africa Centre of Excellence in Software Engineering (ACE), Main Hall, OAU, Ile-Ife.
The first phase of the Day II event began with a short assessment test for the students, which was a pre-programmed recruitment challenge by the EduBridge Academy. The Academy is a career advisory and employability organisation based in Nigeria, focusing on bridging the gap between education and industry needs. Following the assessment and recruitment challenge was a group discussion, where participants were divided into groups and given a scenario to discuss, engage, and find a solution to the problem. This activity allowed students to observe and engage with one another while working as a team.
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The ISE 3.0 commenced with the recitation of the National Anthem and the Great Ife Anthem, followed by a welcome address from Dr Adeduntan Segun-Olasanmi, the Acting Director of the Advancement Office at OAU. In her speech, Dr Adeduntan emphasised the questions that students should ask themselves, as well as the role that internships play in preparing students for leadership roles and obtaining employment. She also highlighted the most challenging problems faced by students in a short video titled ‘If You Know, You Know’ by Tawakalit Oseni. While analysing the video, Dr Adeduntan stated that time management, accommodation, finances, stress, transportation, and hunger, among others, are challenges faced by students. She further explained that her team has been working tirelessly on research to strengthen higher education through improved student experience and alumni engagement. Dr Adeduntan concluded her speech by encouraging students to take on responsibilities to improve student life experiences on campus.
‘Things Are Getting Better’ – Professor Odedire
Professor J.A. Odidere, Dean of Student Affairs, also addressed the distinguished guests and students, appreciating their time and contributions to the event. His speech reflected that the first edition, ISE 1.0, laid the foundation for a veritable and realisable pathway to ensure a cordial and formidable relationship between students and their alma mater. He noted that ISE 2.0 furthered the advocacy by persuading all stakeholders to be conscious of their actions and inactions. The Dean’s address, titled ‘Things Are Getting Better,’ emphasised the significant actions that have changed the status quo. Professor Odidere then acknowledged and praised the resilience of the Advancement Office under the able and visionary Director, who has been passionate about the whole idea of improving student experience. ‘Our desire, arising from this event, is that all stakeholders (students, staff, and alumni) would join hands together and (re)commit themselves to reigniting the dream of a Great Ife where everybody matters!’ he concluded.
The Vice Chancellor, Professor Simeon Bamire, who was represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Professor Prince Adesola, also welcomed the guests and students to the third edition of Improving Student Experience. In his delivered speech, Professor Adesola mentioned that this event is crafted to actualise the mission of leveraging collaboration as the most effective tool for institutional development. ‘This workshop, titled Improving Student Experience: Pathway for Sustainable University Advancement, is strategically designed to ensure this culture of support begins right from the time students are on campus,’ he said. The Vice Chancellor, in his address, informed the audience that the institution would sustain the achievements attained thus far through collaboration with alumni. He also stated that the workshop would further develop synergistic strategies to promote a proactive, sustainable culture of philanthropy and giving back to the university.
The Master of Ceremony, Mr Abiodun Olanrewaju, recognised the presence of several dignitaries, which included Dr Lukman Olasunkanmi, Dr Seun Fakorede (former Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Oyo State), Mr Razaq Ahmed (CEO and co-founder of Cowrywise and President of the CFA Society of Nigeria), Dr Kemi (the University Librarian), Professor Mogbonjubola Olufunmi, Dr Akintomide, Mrs Toyin Lasaki (Head of Human Resources and Administration, Knight Frank), Mr Isaac Ibikunle (LLM from Harvard, LLM from Lagos, LLB from Ife), and Professor A.I. Akinyemi (Deputy Vice Chancellor for Research, Innovation, and Development).
The keynote speaker, Razaq Ahmed, is a visionary fintech leader and the President of the CFA Society Nigeria, where he continues to champion ethical finance and professional excellence across the country. As co-founder and CEO of Cowrywise, he is reshaping Nigeria’s investment culture by making wealth-building tools accessible to millions, especially the digitally connected but underserved population. Cowrywise has made history under his guidance, becoming the first Nigerian fintech to obtain a fund/portfolio management licence from the SEC and the first to be admitted into the Catalyst Fund (backed by JPMorgan and UK Aid). Razaq’s illustrious journey began at Obafemi Awolowo University, where he graduated with a First Class in Economics. From Kano to Ile-Ife, to Lagos and now to global investment circles, Razaq Ahmed’s story is a powerful case study in trust-building, innovation, and inclusive growth.
In his keynote speech, Mr Razaq appreciated the university management for their efforts and willingness to improve students’ learning. He regarded his own experience on the OAU campus as an enjoyable one, both academically and otherwise. ‘Ife remains dear to my heart,’ he said. As a student, Mr Razaq acknowledged that he accomplished amazing things, such as representing the school nationally and internationally. He added that it was not only the challenges or the trophies but the experience and the value added that mattered. He therefore identified several frameworks that could shape students’ experiences. They include: academic quality, the environment in which we learn, the atmosphere on campus, the cost of schooling and student support, opportunities after school, and access to technology and innovation.
To further support the educational system, Mr Razaq pledged a cash prize of ₦1 million to the best graduating student from the Department of Economics, as well as to the Faculty of Computing Sciences. He advised students to create a balanced experience on campus and to contribute positively towards enhancing the overall experience. He also proposed a ₦50 billion Endowment Fund for the institution, which he suggested should be championed by the institution and supported by alumni, as well as private organisations. He encouraged student-led initiatives in partnership with the private sector, stating that students should engage in micro-projects that the institution can accommodate. ‘Look inward, examine your environment and approach private companies for sponsorship,’ he added.
Panel Session
Following the keynote speech, the atmosphere was lightened by the interactive panel session, moderated by Wakeel, with Barrister Isaac Ibikunle and Mrs Toyin Lasaki. Mrs Lasaki is a passionate and dynamic Human Resources leader with over 18 years of rich, cross-industry experience spanning consulting, real estate, construction, and marketing communications. A proud alumna of the University of Ibadan, Toyin is an Associate of the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management (ACIPM) and holds a Professional Diploma in Human Resources from CIPM. She is a Senior Professional in Human Resources International (SPHRi) and a Global Professional in Human Resources (GPHR), both from the HR Certification Institute, USA (HRCI). More recently, she earned her certification as a coach accredited by the International Coaching Federation (ICF). During the panel session, she mentioned that opportunities meet preparation and advised students to list what they can do and where they can do it. ‘Know your gifts, research them, identify the roles and the requirements, then develop yourself in those areas and start applying for internships and jobs,’ she said. Mrs Lasaki concluded by encouraging students to always leave their comfort zones and do things out of passion.
Barrister Isaac Ibikunle is the Team Lead of Olaniwun Ajayi LP’s Arbitration practice and is widely regarded for his expertise in international arbitration, cross-border litigation, and international law. Qualified in both Nigeria and New York and trained at Harvard Law School, Isaac represents clients in high-value commercial and investment disputes in courts and tribunals, including under the ICC, LCIA, ICSID, UNCITRAL, and ad hoc rules. Isaac also contributes significantly to international journals and bodies. He has published and reviewed for leading journals such as the Harvard International Law Journal and serves as an advisory board member of the Kabarak University Law Review in Kenya, as well as an executive member of the African Society of International Law.
The moderator, Wakeel, asked, ‘What can schools do to ensure that university students meet global standards and requirements?’ In response, Barrister Isaac Ibikunle mentioned that personal structure matters, as students should always strive for good grades and also engage in extracurricular activities and attend professional events. He added that networking breaks barriers. He also noted that the school curriculum needs to be restructured and encouraged to foster bonds with alumni. After the panel discussion, students were allowed to ask questions as the panellists and other distinguished guests provided answers to their inquiries. Barrister Isaac Ibikunle shared tips for ensuring an amazing campus experience with the audience, stating that no amount of networking can be enough.
The lightning talk was delivered by Dr Seun Fakorede, R.Eng, MNSE, MASCE, IIHP, JP, a distinguished leader, entrepreneur, and nation builder. He made history in Nigeria’s political landscape in 2019 with his appointment as the youngest Commissioner for Youth and Sports in Oyo State, Nigeria, from 2019 to 2023. His outstanding performance in office led to his current appointment as the Executive Adviser on Youth and Sports to the Oyo State Governor. A United Nations Ambassador for Peace, he is the visionary founder of Home Advantage Africa, a non-profit organisation committed to achieving social development and youth empowerment advocacy. Dr Fakorede stated that unionism must evolve, and students must lead with ideas and intellect. He also emphasised leadership qualities, analysing that leadership is not a position one occupies but a role to be cultivated. As the former Commissioner for Youth and Sports in Oyo State, Dr Fakorede mentioned that one should accumulate personal values, with intellect chosen over violence.
The presence of Iyanuoluwa Falade, Vice President of the Great Ife Students’ Union, was acknowledged, as she represented the President of the Union. Miss Iyanuoluwa pitched to the guest speakers and alumni regarding students who have not been able to pay their tuition fees and proposed a scholarship programme to help ease their burden. She also expressed appreciation to the speakers for the insights shared with the students.
Awards of excellence were presented to Mrs Toyin Lasaki, Barrister Isaac Ibikunle, Dr Seun Fakorede, and representatives from the EduBridge Academy. The event concluded with the awarding of scholarships worth ₦200,000 to ten students who have demonstrated leadership traits and supported the success of the event, including Oke Emmanuel, Oyetuyi Mercy, and Olutuyi Oyinlola, among others. Dr Adeduntan Segun-Olasanmi delivered the farewell note, expressing gratitude to everyone present and wishing the audience a safe journey back to their respective destinations.