Royal Welcome: Strengthening Ties Between ABUAD and DUT

A distinguished delegation, comprising key officers from Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), and Durban University of Technology (DUT), South Africa, was treated to an unforgettable experience during a courtesy visit to the Palace of the Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, Oba (Dr.) Rufus Adeyemo Adejugbe Aladesanmi III. 

The visit was steeped in grandeur, with the resonating sounds of the horn, rhythmic chants, and the splendour of intricately woven Aso Oke attire, complemented by artifacts that celebrated the richness of African culture and tradition.

Introducing the delegates, ABUAD’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof. E. Smaranda Olarinde, FCArb, FCAI, stated that the team was at the palace to brief His Royal Majesty, Aladesanmi III, and the Ewi-in-Council on initiatives designed to strengthen the partnership between ABUAD and DUT. This initiative is aimed to expand on key collaborations, enhance academic programs, and promote research and postgraduate opportunities for sustainable development in Africa.

The Director of International Education and Partnerships (IEP) at DUT, Dr. Lavern Samuels, formally presented the 15-member South African delegation to the monarch and outlined the objectives of the visit.

In a symbolic gesture of cultural exchange, the Executive Dean of the Faculty of Management Sciences, DUT, Prof. Fulufhelo Netswera, presented a special artwork featuring Nelson Mandela’s face, engraved on a globe-like sculpture and flanked by two exquisitely crafted horns—a testament to the richness of Zulu heritage. He further assured the monarch that a “Big Shield of Shaka Zulu” was forthcoming as a token of gratitude for the warm reception.

In his response, the Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, Oba (Dr.) Rufus Adeyemo Adejugbe Aladesanmi III, expressed profound appreciation for the visit and the gifts, which he described as the “greatest souvenir” ever received in the kingdom. Reflecting on the establishment of ABUAD, he praised the visionary leadership of Aare Afe Emmanuel Babalola, CON, OFR, SAN, calling him the pride of Ekiti State.

“I still remember vividly, the day Afe Babalola approached me with his plans to establish a university in Ibadan. His decision to bring it here to Ado-Ekiti is a testament to his deep love for his people. Today, ABUAD is the largest employer of labour after the state government,” the revered monarch recounted.

He further commended the South African university’s decision to honour the Bamofin of Yorubaland, describing him as “the Nelson Mandela of our time, a man who continues to make the impossible possible.”

The delegation was then ushered into designated chalets where they were adorned in resplendent Aso Oke attire. Upon their return, the women’s voices rose in high praise, chanting the Zulu chorus, while those present in the king’s chamber, captivated by the moment, joined in joyous singing and dancing.

Additionally, the visitors received souvenirs depicting the rich history and evolution of Ado-Ekiti’s revered traditional stool.

Prof. Olarinde in her closing remarks, extended heartfelt gratitude to the Oba for his hospitality, which she described as unparalleled.

“I am very eternally grateful to you Sir. Nobody comes to Yorubaland and goes back the same way; either financially, emotionally, spiritually and indeed physically. Kabiyesi O!”

FROM THE VC’s DESK