Nigeria’s premier university, the University of Ibadan (UI), has witnessed a historic change as Mrs Mariam Zakariyah, FCA, assumed duty as its first female and 10th substantive Bursar.
Speaking at the occasion, the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Professor Kayode Adebowale, described her appointment as a reflection of the institution’s enduring tradition, culture and commitment to excellence.
Adebowale, who said the University of Ibadan was founded on an enduring tradition of excellence, commended the outgoing Bursar, Mr Adewuyi Popoola, for maintaining the university’s financial stability throughout his tenure.
The Vice-Chancellor said; “the process that culminated in the appointment of the new Bursar was fair and conducted without gender or religious bias.”
He reiterated that the University of Ibadan was established on a tradition of smooth transitions, which he identified as one of the sources of its institutional strength.
Adebowale said; the reputation of UI extended beyond its immediate environment, stressing that “the university’s activities were rooted in a commitment to excellence, integrity and service.”
He described the appointment of Zakariyah as ‘a significant milestone, noting that the enduring foundation of the university had sustained its reputation as one of Nigeria’s foremost universities.”
The Vice-Chancellor emphasised that the standing of UI was not determined merely by its physical structures, but also by the manner in which it conducted its affairs and upheld sound values.
The new Bursar expressed appreciation to the Vice-Chancellor for ensuring that the appointment process was fair and seamless.
She reaffirmed her commitment to leading the Bursary in fulfilling its mandate and ensuring effective service delivery.
Zakariyah promised to deploy her expertise to justify the confidence reposed in her, while soliciting the continued support of the university management.
The Chief Imam of the University of Ibadan, Professor Ibrahim Uthman, and the Chaplain of the Chapel of the Resurrection, The Venerable Dr Victor Oladele, offered prayers for a smooth transition and a successful tenure for the new Bursar.
