The Acting Vice- Chancellor, Federal University Oye- Ekiti (FUOYE), Professor Olubunmi Samuel Shittu, has called for total support and solidarity among FUOYE stakeholders with a view to moving the university forward.
This was as indicated in a report written by Toye Fisher and published on the institution’s website.
According to the report, the Acting VC said this during an Emergency Senate meeting held on Tuesday at the university.
Professor Shittu was quoted in the report as saying that “The burden of leadership is not one that can be borne alone and that is why this morning I called this meeting to solicit for total support and solidarity especially during this critical period and I will depend on the partnership of this distinguished Senate body at this period and I will also rely on your insight, dedication and professionalism as we navigate this period.”
He further stated: “Let me tell you that our strength lies in our collaboration and in our shared responsibility.
“As you all know, this is the highest decision-making body of the university, so your solidarity, contributions and support in moving this university forward is what I ask for from every member of this distinguished sitting.”
“I promise to offer my best not only in words but also actions and commitment. Our leadership will be rooted in honesty, transparency, inclusiveness and the pursuit of moral and excellence that we are noted for.
“In this short period, we want to restore trust through accountability. We should all try to be transparent in all we do starting from myself. I also want you all to know that if there’s any area that is not clear to anyone, feel free to ask the leadership. Every voice will be heard because this is an ivory tower and nobody will be treated with contempt.”
Continuing, he said: “Every concern will be treated with the seriousness it deserves and silence will never be imposed on anyone.
“In this very limited period we have on the saddle, we will employ an open dialogue and partnership system. This will begin by listening and looking at every issue and criticism and take note of the constructive ones.
“We must try to rebuild the confidence of the larger society concerning our university with open, sincere and structured engagements with all partners and stakeholders and we will also engage all the unions, faculties, directors, head of units and external partners so we can rebuild through mutual respect and honest conversations.
“We will strengthen our policies to ensure FUOYE remains a sanctuary of equal opportunities and respect.”
“Together we can achieve great things and that’s why I curry your support and cooperation so that FUOYE will be stronger and more resilient.”
Prof. Shittu became Vice-Chancellor in acting capacity following the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Abayomi Sunday Fasina’s desire to proceed on his accumulated Annual and Research Leave.
However, at the last Council meeting, it was decided that a Reconciliation Committee be constituted and the committee to start work immediately.
Members of the committee includes an external member to represent the Minister of Education; one member from the congregation and one from the distinguished Senate body; representatives of all unions including the student union and the legal adviser of the university, Barrister Eni.
Prof. Shittu said: “I enjoin everyone that has any grievances to direct their issues to this committee.
“Hajia Nofisat, Chairperson; Mr Matthew, representative of the minister of Education; Professor Bolaji Bukola to represent the Senate; Mr Olusola Taiwo, Representative of Congregation.
“Terms of reference of the committee is to receive complaints of aggrieved individuals and groups to reconcile them and to make appropriate recommendations that will ensure lasting peace in the university.
“The committee is to submit its report within two weeks.”
Similarly, the Acting Vice- Chancellor made the same plea in a meeting alongside the management team with Deans of Faculties, Directors, Heads of Units, Deputy Registrars and Deputy Bursars by calling for support, cooperation and solidarity to move the university forward.
SOURCE: FUOYE WEBSITE