Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Professor Folasade Ogunsola, OON, FAS, emphasized the importance of responsibility, values, and character as essential principles for Nigerian youth. Speaking at a dinner held for outgoing Student-Leaders from all UNILAG faculties at the Lagos Continental Hotel, V.I., Lagos, on Sunday, August 11, 2024, Prof. Ogunsola highlighted the pitfalls of “toxic generosity” and an “entitlement mentality,” which she warned are detrimental to the virtues necessary for success in modern society.
During the event, Prof. Ogunsola expressed her appreciation for the Student-Leaders’ cooperation with the university management in maintaining peace and stability on campus. She commended their exemplary character and leadership throughout their tenure, reinforcing the university’s belief in the students’ potential to excel when given opportunities.
Prof. Ogunsola acknowledged that leadership at any level is challenging, particularly in a world where moral values are in decline and resources are scarce. These issues, she noted, have hindered growth and the quality of followership. She voiced her concerns about the increasing dependency, entitlement mentality, and moral decay among youth, warning that these vices must be addressed promptly to avoid a bleak future.
Reflecting on her time as a student at the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife), Prof. Ogunsola nostalgically recalled the sense of responsibility, opportunities, and societal respect that accompanied university life in the past, contrasting it with the current culture of corruption and irresponsibility.
She praised ongoing efforts towards moral reorientation and urged the outgoing student-leaders to view their time at UNILAG as preparation for the challenges of the real world. Prof. Ogunsola encouraged them to approach the next phase of their lives with responsibility, diligence, and courage, to re-examine their self-worth, and to avoid shortcuts that could jeopardize their future.
The Vice-Chancellor also reaffirmed the university management’s commitment to fostering stronger interactions with students, aiming to develop a “fit-for-purpose workforce” capable of driving both national and global development.
