Addressing registry staff, Ogunsola emphasized that professional conduct, reliability, and excellence remain crucial in navigating a rapidly evolving technological landscape. She stressed that digital readiness is no longer optional, warning that failure to adapt could leave both staff and the institution behind.
“Digitisation and computer literacy are the new reading and writing. If you can’t do that, you’ll be left behind. You’re going to go through some hard work in the next few months and years, but I assure you, there is a light at the end of it,” Ogunsola said. She highlighted that the initiative would include all faculties, including the College of Medicine and Radiography, and emphasized that embracing change will create value both for staff and the university.
The Vice Chancellor underscored the importance of professionalism, accountability, and excellence. She defined professionalism as competence, reliability, and respect for others; accountability as owning one’s responsibilities; and excellence as performing to the highest possible standards. “Doing your best to the highest possible standards, never settling for less. If it can be done better, that is what we choose to do,” she said.
Ogunsola also stressed the need for continuous learning, collaboration, and stepping outside comfort zones. “Nothing good comes out of the comfort zone. Initially, it’s comfortable, but it means everybody leaves you behind. Regret is harder than ‘I wish I had,’” she said, urging staff to view challenges such as low salaries as opportunities to demonstrate commitment and create value.
Registrar Mrs. Abosede Wickliffe lauded registry staff for their readiness to embrace innovation, creativity, agility, and accountability, while Chairman of the occasion, Prof. Lucian Chukwu, encouraged staff to leverage technology, be digitally literate, and maintain teamwork. Keynote speaker Mr. Akin Lewis highlighted the importance of continuous learning and adherence to institutional rules to restore efficiency and prestige in university systems.
The event also featured the launch of Sentinel, the UNILAG Registry’s new publication, and was attended by notable dignitaries, including Deputy Vice Chancellor (Management Services) Prof. Olumuyiwa Falaye; former Vice Chancellor Prof. Rahaman Ade-Bello; ex-Registrar Dr. Folasade Ipaye; and other former and emeritus university leaders.
Prof. Ogunsola concluded by reinforcing the university’s commitment to progress, stating that adapting to technological change is essential for both personal and institutional growth. “As we change, we improve. We get better personally and as an institution,” she said, urging staff to seize the opportunity to position UNILAG at the forefront of digital innovation in higher education.