Skip to main content

Freshers’ Symposium: A Day of Warm Welcomes and Valuable Insights

The 2023/2024 Freshers’ Symposium for the Department of Public Administration was a blend of heartfelt welcome, profound wisdom, and an introduction to the vibrant academic and social life awaiting the new students.

A Warm Start

The program began on a gracious note with a welcome by the Anchor, followed by an opening prayer led by one of the freshmen. The recitation of the school anthem added a touch of tradition, setting the tone for the day. Each freshman then introduced themselves, marking the start of their journey in the department.

In attendance were esteemed members of the faculty, including the Head of Department, Prof. T.A. Olaiya, alongside Professors Popoola, Dr. Mrs. Igbokwe, Dr. Agboola, and Dr. Bello. The department's student executives, parliamentary representatives, and members of the Public Voice News Agency were also introduced, alongside the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management (CIPM), which played a notable role in the day’s activities.

Words of Welcome and Encouragement

The President of the student body delivered an inspiring welcome address, sharing his journey in leadership and advising the freshmen to prioritize character, discipline, and academic excellence. He encouraged them to foster collaboration and embrace the opportunities ahead.



Dr. Mrs. Igbokwe followed with a heartfelt prayer for success and urged the students to carry themselves with dignity, honor God, and focus on their studies. She reminded them of their responsibility to make both themselves and their families proud.



Dr. Bello offered motivating words, challenging the freshmen with the idea that achieving academic excellence is within reach for every student. He emphasized discipline, active class participation, and consistent effort with his notable advice: "Heaven helps those who help themselves."



Prof. Popoola shed light on the ethics of undergraduate life, emphasizing the importance of upholding values and staying focused amidst the distractions of campus life. His message encouraged students to "do the right thing at the right time."



Finally, The Head of department, Prof. Olaiya rounded off the lecturers’ session by congratulating the students on their admission to the prestigious institution and the Department of Public Administration. He emphasized the transformative power of education, quoting Malcolm X: "Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today." He urged the freshmen to embrace responsibility and hard work as hallmarks of good studenthood.


Building Networks and Fun

The social committee took the stage to introduce upcoming events, such as the mountaineering adventure and the much-anticipated Freshers’ Party, The Gen Z Experience. Representatives from the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management (CIPM) introduced the organization and its benefits, encouraging students to explore professional development opportunities.

Adding a fun twist, brand owners showcased their products, and a giveaway, sponsored by the Vice President's office, thrilled the audience. The event concluded with a light-hearted game session, closing remarks by the General Secretary, and a heartfelt closing prayer.


The Freshers’ Symposium left the new students feeling inspired, connected, and prepared to embark on their academic journey with confidence and enthusiasm.

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Not Worth the Dues? NAPAS Students Decry Package Quality

By Public Voice News Agency What began as a long-anticipated disbursement quickly unraveled into a wave of discontent on Tuesday, May 6th, as members of the National Association of Public Administration Students (NAPAS), Obafemi Awolowo University, expressed deep dissatisfaction over the quality and value of their long-awaited departmental packages. The delay in distribution had already raised eyebrows, with students, especially freshers ,  growing restless after months of waiting. Expectations were high. But when the Financial Secretary, through the Public Relations Officer (PRO), invited students to the Departmental President’s office for collection, the excitement fizzled into frustration. Present at the collection point were the Financial Secretary, the PRO, and the General Secretary. For stalites , the package consisted of just one item: a department-branded crest. “It’s not just about getting something it’s about getting something useful,” said Oluwatobiloba, a Part 3 student...

“Indefinite Suspension.” “Impeached.” “Removed.” — Yesterday’s Sitting Was No Joke!

By Public Voice News Agency The NAPAS parliamentary chamber roared back into activity on what should have been a quiet afternoon, as the legislative arm of the association met for what turned out to be a gripping session of debates, decisions, and disciplinary actions. The sitting, scheduled for 3:00 PM, officially began at 3:54 PM with an opening prayer led by the PLO, followed by a solemn rendition of the Great Ife Anthem. The reading of the last sitting’s minutes by the Clerk of the House marked the formal opening. The motion for adoption was moved by Hon. Kanmi and seconded by the Speaker, setting the stage for what would become a drama-filled sitting. Audit Committee Under Fire An early flashpoint emerged when only three out of eight members of the Audit Committee were present—a quorum failure that drew immediate concern. Tension heightened when Napasite Segun, raised a constitutional question: Why was the Acting Editor-in-Chief of Public Voice serving on the committee at al...

Breaking New Ground: HOD Unveils Exciting Academic Innovation

On February 4, 2024, the Public Voice News Agency team had the privilege of sitting down with the Head of the Department of Public Administration for an insightful conversation about the department's new program initiatives. The interview began with warm introductions, and the HOD welcomed the team with enthusiasm, sharing a brief history of the department. He highlighted its foundational role within the university, tracing its roots back to the Institute of Administration. Over time, the department has evolved, even giving rise to other departments like Local Government Studies. Reflecting on its academic journey, the HOD noted that the department initially focused solely on postgraduate studies. However, in 2009, it expanded to include undergraduate programs, introducing the BSc in Public Administration. Now, the department is taking another bold step forward with the development of new programs at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. While some programs have already recei...