Abigail Marshall Katung, the Lord Mayor of Leeds City, United Kingdom, and a Nigerian-British politician, has emphasized the transformative power of education in lifting individuals out of poverty and addressing societal inequalities.
Katung made this assertion during the first convocation lecture of Igbinedion University’s 22nd convocation ceremony held in Okada, Edo State.
Speaking via Zoom on the topic “Education for National Impact,” Katung highlighted that education remains the most powerful tool for societal development.
She commended the Vice-Chancellor of Igbinedion University, Prof. Lawrence Ikechukwu Ezemonye, for his leadership and perseverance, despite logistical challenges that prevented her from attending in person.
“Education is a gift that grows as it is shared. To fully utilize this tool, there must be inclusivity and accessibility,” Katung said.
She stressed the need to make education transformative by decentralizing its structure, ensuring curriculum relevance, and promoting technology literacy as essential pillars for national progress.
Katung also emphasized that inequality is a choice and advocated for education to be a unifying and empowering force for all.
In his welcome address, Prof. Lawrence Ikechukwu Ezemonye described the lecture as the first in a series of activities marking the week-long convocation ceremony. He congratulated the graduating class of 2024 for reaching a significant milestone.
“Your accomplishments are a source of great pride for us all. The future is yours to shape, and we have equipped you with the tools to excel and embody the values of Igbinedion University—excellence, integrity, and service,” Prof. Ezemonye said.
He announced that a total of 856 students, comprising 718 undergraduates and 138 postgraduates, were graduating.
“Among the undergraduates, 45 students earned First Class honors, 288 achieved Second Class Upper Division, while the remainder graduated with Second Class Lower Division.
Prof. Ezemonye also paid homage to the founder and Chancellor of the university, His Excellency, Sir Chief Dr. Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion, CFR, whose vision birthed Nigeria’s first private university.
“Your Excellency’s vision has produced over 16,000 graduates contributing to national and global economies. Your legacy in providing quality university education will forever be etched in gold,” he said.
The Chancellor, represented by Deputy Chancellor Chief Dr. Lucky Nosakhare Igbinedion, applauded Abigail Katung for her inspiring lecture and praised the graduating students for their perseverance and achievements.
“Convocation lectures are a time-honored tradition addressing topical issues relevant to students and society.
“This year’s lecture reflects both on the past and on the vision for the future,” the Chancellor said.
Reflecting on the foundation of Igbinedion University, the Chancellor expressed pride in the institution’s role in addressing Nigeria’s tertiary education deficit, noting the growth of private universities in the country, now numbering over 147.
“As you leave this hall, I have no doubt that you will rise to challenges and become agents of change, driving progress and creating a better future for all,” he concluded.
The event marked a significant milestone for Igbinedion University, which also celebrated its 25th anniversary this year.
The graduating students were charged to carry forward the values instilled in them and contribute meaningfully to society.
