The 27th convocation ceremony of the Oyo State College of Nursing and Midwifery, held at its Eleyele campus in Ibadan, served as a platform to celebrate the achievements of 469 graduating nurses and to inspire them towards a future of impactful service in the healthcare sector. Abiwumi Owoade, wife of the late Alaafin of Oyo and an alumna of the college, delivered a powerful charge to the graduating class, urging them to embrace the roles of trailblazers and agents of transformation. She emphasized the importance of leading with compassion, innovation, and a clear sense of purpose, qualities that would enable them to navigate the complexities of the ever-evolving healthcare landscape. Owoade’s call to action resonated with the overarching theme of the ceremony, which celebrated academic excellence and the crucial role nurses play in strengthening healthcare systems.
The event underscored the commitment of the Oyo State government to nurturing a robust and competent nursing workforce. Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, the Oyo State Commissioner for Health and Chairman of the College Governing Council, reiterated the government’s dedication to producing highly skilled nurses equipped to serve their communities with both proficiency and empathy. He lauded the college’s reputation as a leading institution in nursing education, emphasizing that the graduates had received training of the highest caliber, preparing them for the demands and responsibilities of their chosen profession. The commissioner’s words reinforced the significance of the occasion, marking a pivotal moment in the professional journeys of the graduating nurses.
Among the 469 graduates, 31 students were recognized for their exceptional academic performance. Adetunji Shukurat, a graduate of Basic Nursing, received the prestigious honor of overall best graduating student, a testament to her dedication and hard work. Three other outstanding graduates were also acknowledged with Provost’s Awards, recognizing their exemplary conduct, practical skills, and expertise in nutrition. These individual accolades highlighted the diverse talents and strengths within the graduating class, showcasing the college’s commitment to fostering well-rounded healthcare professionals.
The convocation ceremony also provided an opportunity to reflect on the college’s significant contributions to the advancement of healthcare in Oyo State. Salihu Adelabu, the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, commended the institution for its consistent and impactful role in developing the healthcare sector. The college’s dedication to providing quality education and training has played a vital role in ensuring a steady supply of skilled healthcare professionals to meet the needs of the community. This ongoing commitment to excellence has solidified the college’s position as a cornerstone of healthcare development in the region.
Provost Gbonjubola Owolabi further emphasized the college’s central role in training middle-level healthcare professionals, highlighting its longstanding reputation as a leading institution in the field. The college’s consistent output of qualified nurses has made it a household name in healthcare training, contributing significantly to the improvement of health services within the state. Owolabi also acknowledged the valuable contributions of the Alumni Association, led by global president Gabriel Ajeigbe, recognizing their ongoing support and engagement with the college. The alumni network serves as a vital link between the institution and its graduates, fostering a sense of community and providing mentorship opportunities for future generations of nurses.
The presence of dignitaries from various sister institutions, including the Oyo State College of Health Sciences and Technology and the University College Hospital Ibadan, further underscored the importance of the occasion and the college’s standing within the healthcare community. Their attendance demonstrated the collaborative spirit and shared commitment to advancing healthcare education and practice in the region. The convocation ceremony not only celebrated the achievements of the graduating nurses but also reaffirmed the Oyo State College of Nursing and Midwifery’s vital role in shaping the future of healthcare in Oyo State and beyond. The event served as a powerful reminder of the dedication, skill, and compassion that define the nursing profession and its critical contribution to the well-being of communities.
