By HENRY OLADELE

The University of Lagos (UNILAG) on Thursday conferred Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in French on a 78-year-old man, Dr Hammid Taju, at its convocation ceremonies.

The UNILAG Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, made this known in her address at the university’s 56th Convocation Ceremonies.

“We have among the graduands today, Dr Taju, who obtained PhD in French at a youthful age of 78 years. He is the oldest graduating student this year.

“We also have an inspirational figure, Oba Sulaimon Bangbande, the Olofin of Isheri, who is also graduating with Master of Science (M.Sc) in System Engineering,” she said.

Ogunsola added that other graduating students from UNILAG’s School of Postgraduates Studies and University of Lagos Business School (ULBS) will also be admitted to their degrees.

“The highlight of the day will be recognition of various individuals for their outstanding contributions to scholarship and humanity.

“Two retired academics, Prof. James Olowokudejo of the Department of Botany and Prof. Duro Oni of the Department of Theatre Arts will be honoured as Emeritus Professors.

“In addition, Prof. Akinsanya Osibogun, a distinguished Scholar of Medicine, will be conferred with the title of Distinguished Professor.

“Gold medals will also be awarded to Prof. Ayoka Olusakin, a Professor of Counselling Psychology.”

She also said that there would be recognition of other individuals for outstanding contributions to scholarship and humanity.

She said that a total of 5,775 students would be graduating from UNILAG’s School of Postgraduate Studies and ULBS.

According to Ogunsola, 479 students finished their postgraduate diploma programmes, among which 41 made distinction.

The vice-chancellor said that 5,184 finished their Master’s programmes, with 429 making distinction.

She said that among 112 ULBS students, 32 made distinction.

“The overall best PGD student, who is also with the best PhD thesis in sciences, is Mr Haruna Abubakar.

Ogunsola said that Abubakar had a PhD in Civil and Environmental Engineering (Structure Option).

The vice chancellor thanked members of the UNILAG Senate, staff, alumni, partners and other stakeholders for continued commitment to the institution. (NAN)

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