By Ogbitse Meyiwa, Raymond Ebireri, Ogidi Chidinma, Fumilayo Bayo, Theophilus Oliver, and Gabriella Chinwendu.

The event commenced at exactly 11:20 am with the opening prayer, followed by the introduction of dignitaries and guests. Among those seated were the Staff Adviser of the association (ESAN), Dr Michael Osasuyi, the various departmental presidents, Bishop Mrs. Ayo Ojo, the Speaker of Esan, members of the Luminary executives, among others.

The President of the association, Comrade Owie Johnson, gave his welcome remarks, expressing gratitude to his team, who helped organise the event, the honourable guests who honoured the invitation, and the students present for attending. Thereafter, the Staff Adviser, Dr Osasuyi, gave his opening remarks. He urged the students to stay focused and committed to their studies, reiterating the university’s award of degrees in both character and learning. He further stated that such conferences provide opportunities to expand knowledge or learn new things.

The first guest speaker for the event was Dr Vincent Ebohon, PhD, described by the MC as a man of orderliness. Dr Ebohon, a sociologist of education and prominent lecturer in the faculty, began by greeting and welcoming the guests. He acknowledged the staff adviser and celebrated the Dean of Education (who was not present).

He spoke on ethical issues in education, using UNIBEN as a case study. He defined ethical issues as behaviours and acts that do not conform to the standards and values of an organisation or institution. Some of the ethical issues in education among UNIBEN students he highlighted included lateness to class, irregular class attendance, cultism, suicide addiction, sexual harassment, paying for exam grades (sorting), plagiarism, and indecent dressing. He emphasised the university’s strict policy on these issues and advised students to shun such vices for education to contribute to national development. He urged students to pursue university education rather than focus solely on obtaining certificates.

He also addressed the need for students to speak out if any of their friends consistently talk about suicide or exhibit suicidal behaviour or addiction.

Dr Ebohon further emphasised the issue of indecent dressing among students, urging them to shun it and dress decently to be addressed properly in society. He advised students to adhere to the faculty’s rules.

Dr Ebohon’s main focus was on ethical issues in the academic sector. The issues he discussed Lateness to class, He noted the irony of attempting to address lateness while the event started late. Non-academic students, He criticised students who do not attend classes but only appear during examinations. He described this as “unethical behaviour that does not conform to university rules.” Examination malpractice, He stated, “If you want to contribute to national development, don’t cut corners.” on Cultism, He warned, “The day you join a cult is the day you sign your death warrant.” Suicide addiction, He explained that one of the causes of suicide is depression caused by a lack of money. He encouraged students to reach out to the Staff Adviser of Education when struggling with suicidal thoughts. “Suicide is not an option,” he said. Sorting by students: He condemned paying for grades. Plagiarism, He stressed the importance of acknowledging others’ work. “Copying someone’s work is wrong; when you use someone’s work, acknowledge them,” he said. On Indecent dressing, He referred to it as one of the most pressing issues and advised students to “dress the way you want to be addressed.” He joked about how the way one dresses to meet in-laws could lead to being asked to pound yam or cut firewood.  He criticised sagging among boys, explaining its origins in prisons and comparing it unfavourably to mental instability.

Dr Ebohon concluded by thanking the president for organising the event.

A brief performance followed to entertain the audience, which was well-received.

The second speaker, Dr Mrs. C. Atedor, spoke on “The Importance of Education: Politically, Socially, and Economically.” She stated that “no economy thrives where there’s no education; education drives the economy.”

She emphasised: “Education is the key to employability.” “Education reduces poverty.” “Education helps to promote social stability and fosters critical thinking.” “Education is not a scam.” “Education is the key to personal and economic growth.”

She described education as a fundamental human right and the bedrock of any society. She also mentioned that every course taught at the university has value. She rounded off by noting the lack of adequate support for students with academic challenges.

The MC created a lively moment by offering students opportunities to win free airtime, tickets, and cash prizes for active participation.

Bishop Ayo Ojo addressed the audience, expressing her enjoyment of the event and appreciating the various speakers. She encouraged students to take the lessons seriously and apply them. She also mentioned her pride in her son’s contributions to the faculty and thanked the organisers. Bishop Ojo stressed the importance of proper dressing and noted with satisfaction that the students in attendance were decently dressed.

Awards were presented to dignitaries for their immense contributions to the faculty.

Mrs. Ayo Ojo was given an award for her unwavering financial contributions and support to the Faculty of Education.

Dr Michael Osasuhe, the staff adviser, was recognised for his efforts in making the programme a success. Frank Russia also received an award.

Dr Adeoye Sheriff was the final speaker. He discussed the impact of the economic crisis, stating that when a country imports more than it exports, it faces a recession and inflation. He highlighted how economic crises lead to unemployment, underemployment, reduced economic opportunities, and decreased government spending. He noted that 24% of the national budget was previously allocated to education and argued that maintaining this level would have improved the education system.

He urged youths to create opportunities for themselves despite the state of the economy. He concluded by advising students to blend creativity with the knowledge gained in school and contribute to national development.

Awards were also presented to Samy, the Director of Welfare, and Amos, an alumnus of the faculty, for their humility and financial support. Comrade Johnson Owie, the faculty president, and Comrade Osamudiame, the vice president, were also recognised alongside other executives for their contributions.

The event ended with a live performance by Wrapper Boi who is a comedian, skitmaker and a content creator , bringing the ESAN Conference 2024 to a close.

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