Today, 9th May, 2025, the Association of Veterinary Medical Students, University of Ibadan (AVMSUI), held its Freshers’ Welcome and Lab Coat Ceremony for the newly admitted students and DVM I students respectively.
The event, which took place at the Faculty Auditorium, had in attendance dignitaries including the Dean of the Faculty, Prof. Ola-Davies; the Sub-Dean (Undergraduate), Dr. Anifowose; Professor Olopade; Dr. Azeez; and the Guest Speaker, Dr. John Jesuwale.
In her opening remarks, the Dean, Prof. Ola-Davies, appreciated the initiative of the Sub-Dean, AVMS, and her executives for organizing the ceremony. Addressing the DVM I students, she said:
“I heartily welcome and congratulate you on this feat of coming fully into and being adopted into the veterinary profession at the University of Ibadan. It takes hard work to cross over to this side.”
She emphasized that “Veterinary medicine is not a sprint, but a marathon,” urging students to persevere through the academic journey.
The robing ceremony followed shortly afterward, conducted by the Dean and other dignitaries. In her remarks during the ceremony, Prof. Ola-Davies charged the students to wear the lab coat as a symbol of “honesty, integrity, and egalitarianism.”
She encouraged them to use their new professional privilege in service of animal welfare and societal well-being.
The first speaker, Prof. Olopade, a professor of Veterinary Anatomy, welcomed the students as the newest members of the veterinary family in UI. In his address, he said:
"Veterinary medicine is hard work. You’re on a road filled with challenges. Vet is war. Anyone going to war must prepare and believe he’s coming back. Make up your mind that you’re going to complete it—and with distinctions.”
He acknowledged the increasing pressure students face, especially with the reduced academic calendar, and lamented the growing prevalence of short attention spans among students. He stressed the importance of stamina and consistent reading habits.
Encouraging the students to embrace the academic rigour, he also advised them to develop extracurricular skills such as computer proficiency, AI literacy, molecular biology, and entrepreneurship.
“Develop yourself. Develop leadership skills. Your culture starts from a daily routine—your routine shapes your habits, and your habits become your lifestyle,” he concluded.
The second speaker, Dr. Azeez, a senior lecturer in the Department of Veterinary Physiology, speaking on the theme, explained that the course provides a holistic understanding of life.
He urged students to develop entrepreneurial skills, citing the number of individuals already gainfully employed as a testament to the course’s practical value. He went on to highlight some essential qualities required in veterinary school.
He emphasized the importance of critical thinking and noted that adaptability is crucial, as a veterinarian is a versatile individual who can function effectively in any capacity they find themselves.
Dr. Azeez encouraged students to embrace flexibility and maintain resilience in the face of setbacks and challenges.
The third speaker, Dr. John Jesuwale, CEO of Beracah Network, spoke on the theme “Admission to Ambitions: Prospects in Veterinary Medicine.”
He urged students to always accompany their preparations with prayers, emphasizing the importance of combining both spiritual and academic efforts.
“Plan your work, and at the same time, work your plan,” he advised, adding that “whoever fails to plan, plans to fail.”
Dr. Jesuwale reminded the students that every individual is a product of their thoughts. He encouraged them to develop a deep understanding of the career path they have chosen. “Veterinary medicine is a broad and fulfilling career, don’t underestimate yourself,” he emphasized.
The Sub-Dean in his address welcomed the students to the Faculty. He used the opportunity to highlight the Faculty prospectus, rules and guidelines required of the newly admitted students.
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