Redeemer’s University Convocation: Graduating Students charged On Integrity, Faith In God

Mr Alex Okoh, former Director-General, Bureau of Public Enterprises, Abuja has charged graduating students of Redeemer’s University, Ede to imbibe the virtue of integrity and handwork in their various professional fields.

Okoh gave the charge on Wednesday, while delivering a convocation lecture titled: Anchored In Faith: Succeeding With Integrity In A Competitive World”, at convocation ceremonies of ‘More Than Conqueror Set’, Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun State.

He called on the graduands to imbibe virtues such as integrity, honesty and faith in God in order to succeed in their profession.

He said: “Integrity is the bedrock of trust, both in your personal and professional life. It is your most valuable asset and the greatest gift you can offer to the world. But in a world where competition is fierce, integrity can sometimes seem like a burden! You will encounter situations where taking a shortcut or bending the rules may seem like the easier and more convenient path. But I urged you to resist those temptations. Beware of the ” way that seemeth right!” Faith gives you strength

“Faith gives you the strength to remain true to your core value no matter the pressure. It helps you resist the seduction of corrupt materialism and teaches you that unbridled quest for wealth, titles, and accolades are temporary.

“While integrity is about being the same person in the dark as you are in the light. It’s about staying true to your principles, doing the right thing even when no one is watching, and especially when the stakes are high, knowing that the “one from whom no secrets are his” is watching.

“Amidst temptations, God wants you to stand firm like Daniel on what you know is right. And He requires you to succeed with integrity, even in a predominantly secular world, just as Joseph did. I use the word ‘require’ because I do not believe it is a choice. Success is your God-given right as a King and priest on earth.

“Before we go further, it is necessary to expatiate on the concept of success as pertaining to faith. Godly success is not the same as what the world perceives as success. It is not money, power, and fame.

“Joseph was anything but successful in worldly terms until he interpreted Pharaoh’s dream. He went from being favourite son, sold brother, slave, servant, and prisoner to becoming Prime Minister in Egypt.

“Joseph sought God’s kingdom by being upright in all his dealings in Potiphar’s home, the prison, and even in his roles as governor, and God deemed him worthy of the perks of that Godly success; that is influence and favour no matter where he was. Joseph honoured God by maintaining integrity in the face of temptation and in the fulness of time, God honoured Joseph”.

Meanwhile, in his address the Vice Chancellor, Redemer’s University, Professor Shadrack Akindele, urged the students to be good ambassadors of the university just as he urged them to have faith God.