OSPOLY Mass Comm Students Surprise Lecturer With Gifts For Dedication

By Abraham Asiyanbi, Samuel Iyiola, Omololu Ajayi

The Higher National Diploma (HND 2) students of the Mass Communication department, Osun State Polytechnic, Iree, surprised a senior lecturer, Dr. Aderemi Adeagbo, with gifts in appreciation of his dedication.

The event took place in New Lecture Hall 1 (NLH1) of the institution on Friday during a lecture in the course MAC 415: Digital Journalism.

Overwhelmed by the kind gesture from the students, Adeagbo expressed his deep appreciation, revealing that he was not expecting such kindness and was amazed by their thoughtfulness.

Emphasizing the popular saying that “Lecturers’ rewards are in heaven,” Adeagbo explained that, as a result of what the students did, it is evident that lecturers’ rewards can still be received on earth.

“I was not expecting it. I was really surprised and overwhelmed. It was an interesting and surprising package, and I am happy to see that I am being rewarded today,” Adeagbo stated.

He further stressed that “it is a clarion call to do more. For my students to recognize this, that means I don’t have to relent. This signifies that if they (students) have more than what they gifted today, they can do even better.”

“At this level, I thought they couldn’t do this at the moment, probably in the future, but I am really surprised. I am thankful to all the students that, at this stage of my career, I can still be appreciated,” he said.

Adeagbo, however, inspired the students to keep striving for excellence, focus on their studies, and remain determined, noting that they will surely achieve their dreams and aspirations. He added that “It is not over until it is over.”

Clearing the notion that the kind gesture was an attempt by students to solicit better grades in exams, Adeagbo maintained that “That was the reason we continued the ongoing lecture at that moment, to ensure the students received what they needed. If it were about grades, one could have ended the lecture and declared that everyone had passed. But despite the surprise, joy, and happiness, I took my time to teach. It is not about the marks but about preparing them for future challenges.”

He further emphasized that the honor bestowed upon him is a lesson for all lecturers, students, and staff, stating that society is watching and all efforts will eventually be rewarded.

“It is my advice to other lecturers and staff of the institution to keep contributing their quota to the academic environment. It is a service to humanity, and one day, people will reward them,” Adeagbo noted.

According to the students, the gesture was inspired by the lecturer’s kindness, friendly nature, and practical approach to teaching, which had significantly impacted their academic journey.

The gifts, which included packets of bottled water, fruits, raw food items, snacks, and money, were presented to Dr. Aderemi Adeagbo during the surprise ceremony while he was lecturing in class.