INTERVIEW

On December 18^th, 2019, students of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ibadan exercised their franchise and various individuals were voted into different executive and senatorial offices in the Association of Veterinary Medical Students (AVMS). The election saw Olaoluwa Ola-Williams, commonly known as ‘Kunta’, emerge as the elected president of AVMS. As part of the commitment of Vet News Organization, an interview was scheduled with the president-elect and here is the transcript:

VNO: Can we meet you?

(Laughs) Well, I am still learning how to introduce myself. So for starters, I am Olaoluwa Ola-Williams; a DVM IV student of this noble faculty, a passionate member of the Association of Veterinary Medical Students, a proud Zikite, an advocate for the love of beans and nobody's boyfriend. It’s an honour to be here.

VNO: How does it feel to be the choice of majority vet students for the post of AVMS President?

First, as much as I am still awestruck at the outcome of the elections, I am deeply indebted to every member of the association for exercising their franchise in my favour. Second, I feel this rare sense of responsibility, owing to the amount of trust Unibadan vet students have reposed in me, to pilot the affairs of the association. It is a feeling of a lifetime, fashioned like a call to make impact and exploits, with a dedication to serve.

VNO: Do you think anything has changed in your personality since you became elected?

I would not say my personality has changed per se. If anything, I have come to terms that people's support is undeniably invaluable, and as such, should never be taken for granted.

VNO: You had the same number of vote with your contender (Akindele Uthman) in your constituency (DVMIV class), what do you have to say about this?

I could swear I never saw it coming. With every ounce of honesty, I personally felt like the underdog in our constituency throughout the period of campaign. But, I feel it is a glowing testament of the fact that our classmates felt we were both equally fit for the position. It is an evidence of zero bias, and I think it is healthy for the class, especially at this point in time.

VNO: What will be your first line of action as the AVMS President?

Our first line of action would be a critical inquiry into the prevailing welfare conditions of vet students (especially within the faculty) and how they can be improved. Already, we have been in close contact with some class reps to take recommendations and reports. And we are already seeking channels to marshal our voice to the appropriate quarters. Second is the provision of the association's constitution to members, whose process is already in the pipelines. It should be effected by the end of the first semester unfailingly.

VNO: What will you say are the ills facing vet students during their sojourn in the university?

Aside the overwhelming academic demands of our discipline, the conditions of our welfare, with regards to accommodation and transportation on campus. Another one is the pressure of leading a balanced-student life.

VNO: Some vet students are of the opinion that like some past presidents, you may not be inclined to address some issues facing vet students, especially the ones having their origin from the academic structure, because of fear of lecturers. Do you think you can change this?

Allow me to state this upfront; our faculty lecturers are some of the most approachable people I know, and I make bold to say it. Our Dean and Sub-Deans, in fact, are parental figures with listening ears. Thus, I find it a little upsetting if an insinuation is made that the fear of lecturers would deprive us of our duty to defend students' rights and demands. The not-so-secret weapons to addressing such issues remain diplomacy and manner of approach. And they do not appear Herculean to employ.

VNO: On an average, how would you grade vet students according to their political commitment?

It is on an upward trajectory than before, the evidence of which is gawking at our faces with the emergence of vet students as heads and executives in their various halls of residence and student organizations across campus. We have three hall chairmen-elects, one health minister-elect, a majority leader at the SRC, two presidents of major student organizations, and we even had a candidate at the Students' Union level. Interestingly, there are still more vet students sure to emerge at their respective constituencies. I actually feel we should channel that passion to our home front to make our association much more politically engaging than ever. It can only get better.

VNO: You will soon have some individuals heading certain portfolios (e.g. Dog Show chairman, Public Lecture chairman, etc.) to facilitate your administration, what qualities would you consider for these appointments?

A verifiable track record and penchant for excellence is key. Also, a profound sense commitment and an unbridled passion for the association are non-negotiable attributes.

VNO: Who is your role model in the political world and why?

Politically speaking, a lot of names come to mind; Marcus Garvey, Jeremy Corbyn, Abraham Lincoln. But for role models, it is perhaps a toss-up between Mahatma Gandhi and Nelson Mandela. They were both people-oriented, ideological than philosophical, and well-meaning in their approaches. Their theories on nationalism and democracy heavily influenced me.

VNO: As a congressman in the faculty, how would you grade the current AVMS President (Sanusi Oluwaseyi)?

Frankly, I consider him somewhat of an achiever. However, just as it is universally accepted that no one is perfect, I feel the urge to tactically admit that institutional instability subtly dented his administration. Regardless, I still feel enormously privileged to succeed him and I hope I have enough fuel in the tank to achieve more in office.

VNO: Do you have anything you would improve on in his mode of leadership?

No one has it all. We are all still works in progress. I believe I am an essential listener. And I pride myself on emotional intelligence when dealing with the plight of the people. I believe in bureaucracy. We all try.

VNO: What is your biggest plan for AVMS?

Our biggest plan for AVMS, UI would be the institution of the academic mentorship programme. It is a brainwave worthy of experimentation in our association. I also fervently wish for us to house the national secretariat and host the next convention of the Nigerian Association of Veterinary Medical Students (NAVMS).

VNO: How do you plan to hear the voice of vet students when they have pressing needs?

As promised during the campaign, we shall do so through two major means. First, we sample opinions and feedback from vet students through online forms and surveys. Second, we shall hold congresses, and town hall meetings with the faculty management. We shall ensure we hold both each, at least once every semester.

VNO: In 10years time, how do you see the veterinary education in University of Ibadan?

Of greater standard, with the ability to compete with other world-class institutions. Also, there should be greater emphasis on clinical and professional exposure rather than just academics. Victory comes in trickles, we would get there.

VNO: What do you have to say to vet students regarding the forthcoming examination?

To start with, I want us to believe in the only thing greater than ourselves; the Almighty. Let us remain steadfast in our preparations, keep a positive mentality and see the worth in every second. To our colleagues writing their second and third professional examinations, we say Godspeed. We shall all celebrate at the end. God bless.