IN a bid to recognise and reward academic excellence, the Alumni of the Mathematics Department at Lagos State University (LASU) presented cash prizes totalling N300,000 to students who achieved the highest Grade Point Average (GPA) during the 2022/2023 academic session.
The awards were distributed during an orientation programme for newly admitted students held on Thursday, March 7 2024, at Hall 2, New Science Complex, Faculty of Science, LASU main campus in Ojo, Lagos.
On her part, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello mni NPOM, expressed gratitude to the alumni association for their generous initiative. She emphasised the importance of such scholarships in motivating students to excel in their academic pursuits and urged them to remain focused on their studies while adhering to the University's rules and regulations.
During the ceremony, N60,000 cash prizes were awarded to each of the five students with the best GPA across different academic levels (100, 200, and 300). Notably, three students tied for the top spot in the 100-level category.
Meanwhile, Prof. Lawal Adigun, representing the Vice-Chancellor, encouraged the newly admitted students to familiarise themselves with the students' handbook and embrace a disciplined approach to their studies. He advised them to steer clear of activities that could jeopardise their academic journey and emphasised the importance of being exemplary ambassadors of the University.
Prof. Moses Akanbi, the Dean of the Faculty of Science and a distinguished Mathematician, welcomed the students to the Mathematics Department, reassuring them of the value of their chosen discipline and encouraging them to remain steadfast in their academic pursuits.
Similarly, Dr Olutimo Lewis, Acting Head of the Mathematics Department, delivered a motivational speech on "Career in Mathematics," where he shared personal anecdotes to inspire the students to pursue excellence in their academic and professional endeavours. He highlighted various career paths available to Mathematicians, including roles as Statisticians, Data Scientists, Financial Analysts, and Software Engineers.
The event also featured informative sessions by Dr Asiribo Wusu and Dr (Mrs) Aminat Ige, who addressed departmental challenges and offered words of encouragement, respectively. The presence of both teaching and non-teaching staff underscored the collective support for the students' academic journey.
In her closing remarks, Dr (Mrs) Aminat Ige expressed gratitude to all participants and reiterated the importance of academic excellence and community support in fostering a conducive learning environment.
The orientation programme served as an opportunity for newly admitted students to familiarise themselves with the department's expectations and resources, setting the stage for a successful academic journey at LASU.
