The Federal Polytechnic, Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State Alumni Association (FEDPAAA) has celebrated a former rector of the institution, Dr Taiwo Akande over her contributions to the growth and development of the polytechnic.
The alumni said Akande who was the institution’s fifth substantive rector between 2009 and 2017 deserved to be celebrated for her unmatched leadership qualities and impacts she made in the polytechnic.
The national alumni president, Dr Oyedokun Abiodun spoke on Thursday in Ado-Ekiti during an event organized by the association to honour the legacy of Dr Akande. At the event, the alumni association presented a cheque of one million naira and various food items to her.
Abiodun explained that all members of the association both home and diaspora agreed to the celebration of the former rector, adding that her passion for the success of the products of the institution was worthy of note.
According to him, ” Dr. Akande’s tenure as the 5th substantive Rector was a period of significant growth and transformation for our institution.
“She believed in us, the products of this great institution. Her unwavering faith in our abilities led to the employment of many alumni, providing us with opportunities to contribute to the growth of our alma mater.
“Dr. Akande’s leadership was characterized by empathy, understanding, and a genuine desire to uplift others. She went beyond the call of duty, supporting students in need and extending a helping hand to those who were struggling. Her kindness and compassion have touched the lives of countless individuals.”
He explained that the gesture was to send a strong message to those in position of authority to be mindful of their actions because people are watching them.
The rector of the polytechnic, Dr Temitope Alake described the former rector as a woman of substance and disciplinarian who made profound impacts on the institution during her eight-year tenure.
Represented by the deputy rector (Academics) Dr Remi Akinyemi, the rector noted that she never compromised standard in discharging her responsibilities when she was at the helm of affairs in the polytechnic.
Responding, Dr Akande commended the alumni association for the honour accorded her, describing it as shocking and totally overwhelming.
She noted that the rough moments during her tenure in the polytechnic has taught her many valuable lessons which has made her a better person in the society.
“I thank the alumni association for this honour done me today which has a healing effect on my soul and which also sends a clear signal to all and sundry that truly, all actions have consequences whether good or bad but come they must.
“Yes, the last eight years of my thirty -eight years service in this polytechnic, wherein I served as Rector, were for the most part rough, stormy and daunting but they taught me really valuable lessons,” she said.
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