Building a successful Veterinary career: Lessons in leadership and professional development.

 

Today, 5th of December, 2024, the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine organised her faculty lecture centered on leadership and professional development. The event themed "Veterinary Career: Lessons in Leadership and Professional Development" held at the Faculty auditorium, and graced by students, staff, and invited guests.

In her opening address, the Dean, Prof. Olufunke Ola-Davies, expressed gratitude to God for bringing their plans for the event to fulfillment. She emphasised the importance of discussing leadership, stating, "As veterinarians, we must continue to provide leadership as we defend animal and, consequently, human health."

Dr. Sobowale, who joined virtually and was ably represented physically by his brother, Mr. Ayoola Shobowale, spoke on leadership and professional development. He stressed the importance of setting clear goals and vision, discipline, and time management in leadership. He concluded that every leader must strategize and allow time for their vision to grow.

Dr. Shobowale also spoke on professional development, advising the audience to start small, surround themselves with like-minded people, focus on clear purpose and the essence of reading and searching out information about their chosen profession. He emphasised the need to limit social media use for entertainment and instead leverage it for marketing.

Dr. Niyi Oladosu, an alumnus and financial expert, spoke on the power of giving, stressing the importance of giving back to the society, faculty, and Nigeria at large. He advised the students to look for opportunities to give, not only money but also emotional support and concern for well-being to their clients and customers. 'Always deliver value and never cheat,' he concluded. He further, on behalf of him and his wife, donated books to the faculty library.

The event recognised and honoured several individuals, including Dr. Sobowale, Dr. Niyi, and, surprisingly, a DVM V student, Thomas Okareh Omolewa, who was recognised for her consistent volunteering service to the faculty.

The event concluded with the Dean thanking the speakers and audience, followed by closing remarks from the faculty officer, Mrs. Toyin Dibosa. Other notable attendees included Dr. Jumoke Oladosu, Evangelist and Mrs. Akanbi, Ambassador Dapo Akanbi, and Alhaji Tajudeen Adéyemí.