Department. marks occasion with journal launch.
Accolades were poured on the renowned Professor of Yoruba Literature at the Department of Linguistics and Languages of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, AAUA, Ondo State, Nigeria, Olúyẹmísí Adébọ̀wálé, as her department celebrated her 60th birthday.
Volume 9, special edition, Akungba Journal of the Department of Linguistics and Languages, was launched to mark her 60th birthday.
Speaking at the special event for the celebrant, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun, congratulated the celebrant, and described her as a great scholar who has always been upholding excellence and contributing meaningfully not just to the academic profession, but also mankind.
In his remark, the Dean, Faculty of Arts, Prof. Olu Alana, said though he joined the services of AAUA few years ago, he acknowledged that Adébọ̀wálé has never been found wanting in terms of character, academic excellence and service to humanity.
Earlier in his address of welcome, the Head of the Department, Dr. Temitope Olumuyiwa, had noted that nothing would be too much to honour her having distinguished herself in all ramifications.
Dr. Olumuyiwa added, “Prof. Olúyẹmísí Adébọ̀wálé is a teacher of teachers. She was my teacher from 200 level to 400 level and she still teaches me. Therefore, it is not an exaggeration to affirm that Prof. Adébọ̀wálé is a grand-ma teacher.”
On their own, Prof. (Mrs.) Arinpe Adejumo from the University of Ibadan; Dr. Busuyi Mekusi of AAUA, and Dr. (Mrs.) O. A. Aladesanmi from Ekiti State University, who presented short eulogies on Prof. Adébọ̀wálé, acknowledged that they were at one time or another beneficiaries of the celebrant’s good gestures.
They described her as an epitome of humility and generosity, a selfless and progressive-minded human being.
Adébọ̀wálé, a dynamic academic, poet, playwright, critic, and global conference paper presenter, with 52 publications published across the globe, was described as a serial debutant of excellence.
She was the first female to earn a Ph.D. in Yorùbá from the University of Ibadan; first female Editor of Yorùbá: Journal of the Studies Association of Nigeria (YSAN); first female President of Yorùbá Studies Association of Nigeria (YSAN); first female Professor in AAUA; first female inaugural lecture presenter in AAUA; first female Dean of Student Affairs; first female Dean of the Faculty of Arts; and first female Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) of AAUA.
Other people who spoke at the event, described her as an erudite scholar, a quintessential, astute administrator, an exemplary and passionate teacher, a seasoned leader and role model par excellence, a responsible, caring and loving grandmother, a virtuous and pretty woman, a God-fearing human being, and a proudly hardworking Nigerian.
Responding, Adébọ̀wálé, who was obviously excited, appreciated the Department for celebrating her in a unique way, and thanked all attendees for honouring her, adding that she was humbled by all the encomiums poured on her.
Highlights of the event which was attended by dignitaries from all walks of life, including friends, families and associates, were presentation of a Keynote Address, titled, “Trends in the Yoruba Studies in the 21st Century,” by Prof. Duro Adeleke of UI; cultural dance display; poems; gift presentations; cutting of the 60th birthday cake, and a sumptuous reception.
– Photo caption: Prof. (Mrs.) Olúyẹmísí Adébọ̀wálé (3rd L), cutting her 60th Birthday cake… on Monday last week. She was assisted by AAUA VC, Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun (3rd R); University Bursar, Mrs. Bunmi Ologun, FCA (2nd R); Dean, Faculty of Arts, Prof. Olu Alana (1st R); Chief Launcher of Akungba Journal, Mr. Ayoyinka Akinyosoye (1st L); and Wife of the Ondo State Commissioner for Health, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Adegbenro.
