By Nafiu Toyin Abdulqadri.
The Forum of Unilorin Former Students Union Presidents (FUFSUP) recently organized a pioneering retreat for the newly inaugurated leadership of the Students’ Union.
The event, a blend of training and recreation, aimed to equip student leaders with essential skills for effective leadership. Associate Professor Alex Akanmu, Dean of Student Affairs and former Students’ Union President, emphasized the crucial role of good leadership in fostering unity and development.
“The University’s harmonious relationship between the school and the union is no accident,” Prof. Akanmu noted. “This retreat will further enhance this relationship.”
The training sessions focused on purposeful leadership, organizational and time management, conflict resolution, goal setting, and 21st-century student advocacy. Notable speakers, mostly former student leaders, shared their expertise.
Engr. Musa Surajudeen ‘Smart’, former Union President (2011/2012), stressed that crisis management is essential for student leaders. He shared his experience in averting a potential crisis during the 2012 West Africa University Games (WAUG).
Prof. Rasheed Jimoh, Vice-Chancellor of Muhammad Kamaldeen University, Ilorin, advised the student leaders to prioritize and balance their academic responsibilities with union activities.
Dr. Kabir Olamilekan Bello, former Union President (2009/2010), commended the organizers and emphasized the shift from “aluta” (struggle) to “alua” (intellectualism).
Other renowned speakers contributed to the retreat’s success. Prof. Abdulfatai Sambo delivered an insightful presentation on advocacy and welfare, while Barrister Idris Alao shared expert advice on effective communication and public relations (PR) strategies.
The student union leaders expressed gratitude to the organizers and speakers, appreciating the opportunity to learn from their experiences.
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