The Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomosho, on Tuesday witnessed a remarkable academic milestone as Dr. (Mrs.) O.O. Oloke, Deputy Registrar in the Directorate of Student Affairs, delivered the institution's first-ever Valedictory Lecture, leaving participants with profound lessons on effective communication, professionalism, and excellence in public service.
The lecture, themed "Dot the 'i's and Cross the 't's: Say It Loud," brought together members of the university management, academic and non-academic staff, students, and well-wishers to celebrate Dr. Oloke's distinguished career and contributions to the university.
Among the dignitaries in attendance were the Vice-Chancellor of LAUTECH, Professor Razaq Olatunde Rom Kalilu; the Registrar, Mrs. Olayinka Olanike Balogun; Deans of Faculties; Heads of Departments; directors; and other senior university officials who gathered to honour the retiring administrator.
In her lecture, Dr. Oloke emphasized the importance of mastering official communication within the university system, stressing that effective communication remains a vital tool for institutional excellence. She noted that while language is dynamic, users must understand and apply its basic rules correctly, especially in formal settings.
Speaking extensively on English grammar, verbal and non-verbal communication, she explained that every language possesses unique characteristics that require careful study and proper application. According to her, she has authored and consulted several books on English, Yoruba and French languages, reflecting her passion for language development and communication.
She advised learners and professionals to pay close attention to sentence structure, punctuation, proper use of commands, correct application of proper nouns, and appropriate grammar in official correspondence. She further cautioned against the use of contractions and informal expressions in formal writing, describing accuracy and precision as indispensable qualities for every administrator.
Dr. Oloke urged participants to pay attention to even the smallest details in every assignment and professional responsibility, explaining that the symbolic expression "Dot the 'i's and Cross the 't's" represents diligence, thoroughness, consistency, and excellence in service delivery.
Sharing memorable experiences from her years of service, she recalled one of her earliest encounters with a former Registrar of LAUTECH during a meeting. She narrated how the former Registrar asked members present to state the plural form of "curriculum vitae," adding that she was the only person who provided the correct answer, an experience she said reinforced the value of continuous learning and sound knowledge of language.
The lecture also featured goodwill messages from colleagues and stakeholders.
Delivering his goodwill message, the Chairman of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), LAUTECH Branch, Comrade Fajoye Hamzat, described the occasion as a historic moment for the university's non-teaching staff. He noted that the valedictory lecture would inspire administrative personnel to pursue excellence, professionalism, and continuous self-development.
Comrade Hamzat praised Dr. Oloke for her years of dedicated service to LAUTECH and prayed for good health, long life, and greater accomplishments in her retirement. He also commended the Vice-Chancellor and members of the university management for supporting the initiative and ensuring the success of the programme.
Similarly, Mrs. Victoria Olojede, speaking during her goodwill message, applauded Dr. Oloke's commitment to excellence and her remarkable contributions to administrative development within the university. She described the retired Deputy Registrar as a mentor whose legacy would continue to inspire younger generations of university administrators.
The historic maiden Valedictory Lecture ended with tributes celebrating Dr. Oloke's outstanding career, dedication to service, and unwavering commitment to promoting effective communication, academic excellence, and administrative professionalism at LAUTECH.
Post a Comment