The Catholic Bishop of Ondo Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Jude Arogundade, has called on Nigerian universities to rise beyond academic achievements and become agents of national transformation through innovation, moral development, and problem-solving.
He made the call while delivering the homily at an interdenominational service held at St. Albert’s Catholic Chaplaincy, Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), on Sunday 9th November, to mark the institution’s 36th convocation ceremony.
Describing universities as “centres of reflection, study, and research,” Bishop Arogundade emphasized that specialized institutions like FUTA were established to make tangible contributions to society. “The goal of teaching and research,” he said, “is to add value to humanity. Universities must not fall short of this sacred mandate.”
He stressed that universities and churches share a common mission — the formation of character and the transformation of lives. “The information you receive must be transformational. It should make God’s world meaningful and better for others,” he said. “Through proper character formation, the Church and the university must instill virtues that promote selfless service to God and humanity.”
Drawing from Ezekiel 47:1–12, the Bishop likened the life-giving water in Scripture to the transformative role of education. “As the water gives life, so should the university give meaning to society,” he said. “Just as the Church brings healing to the world, FUTA must bring solutions to the nation’s challenges through research, innovation, and truth.”
Addressing the graduating students, Bishop Arogundade urged them to embrace creativity, discipline, and faith as they enter the world. “No meaningful progress happens without will and determination,” he said. “Reject hatred and selfishness; instead, be agents of change and allow God’s Spirit to shine through your work.”
The Bishop also appealed to the Federal Government to decisively tackle insurgency, terrorism, and banditry, noting that peace and stability are essential for the country’s progress.
In her remarks, Professor Adenike Oladiji, Vice-Chancellor of FUTA, reaffirmed the university’s commitment to technological advancement, innovation, and self-reliance. She said FUTA remains focused on producing graduates capable of addressing national challenges, adding that recent federal agricultural subventions would further strengthen the university’s role in food security, job creation, and economic development.
The service ended with prayers for national renewal, peace, and divine wisdom for Nigeria’s leaders and graduates alike.
Credit: FUTA
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