Former United States Secretary of State, Henry A. Kissinger, once remarked that the task of a leader is to move people from where they are to where they ought to be. Similarly, leadership expert John C. Maxwell stated that a leader knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way. These concepts are currently being exemplified at the Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE) under its fifth substantive Vice Chancellor, Prof. Joshua Olalekan Ogunwole.
Prof. Ogunwole, who assumed office on February 11, 2026, is steering the university towards a new trajectory. He is introducing what he terms the new face of FUOYE, where sentiments yield to common sense, and bullying, violence, and gangsterism give way to public interest. With his experience as a former VC of Bowen University, he is guiding the academic community with clarity and purpose.
A Shift to Digital Operations
Prof. Ogunwole is transforming the university’s operational processes from outdated analogue methods to a robust digital platform. When the Director of Public Affairs and Communication (DIPAC) proposed reviving daily newspaper purchases, the VC insisted on a digital approach, stating that the university aims to go paperless within five years.
Addressing Past Challenges
FUOYE has previously faced negative publicity due to issues such as declining civility, erosion of decorum, and impunity. Prof. Ogunwole condemned these behaviors, emphasizing that confrontational posturing, verbal aggression, and disregard for authority will no longer be tolerated. He is committed to restoring discipline and order.
Vision for Rebuilding
Since taking office, Prof. Ogunwole has initiated measures to fulfill his vision, meeting with stakeholders to share his agenda of rebuilding, rehabilitation, reconstruction, and reconciliation. He acknowledged the achievements of his predecessor, Prof. Sunday Abayomi Fasina, but stressed the need to build on them to elevate FUOYE to greater heights.
Sunday Saanu, PhD, Director of Public Affairs and Communication at FUOYE, contributed to this report.
