The Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) celebrated the induction of 113 graduating Computer Science students into the computing profession by the Computer Professionals Registration Council of Nigeria (CPN).
The Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), today, July 28, 2026, celebrated the induction of 113 graduating students of its Department of Computer Science into the computing profession by the Computer Professionals Registration Council of Nigeria (CPN), marking a significant milestone in the graduates' academic and professional journey.
The 11th CPN Induction Ceremony for the 2025/2026 Graduating Class, held at the University's Postgraduate School Auditorium, brought together Principal Officers of the University, representatives of CPN, parents, staff, alumni and well-wishers to witness the formal admission of the graduates into the profession.
Welcoming guests on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, the Dean of the College of Engineering (COLENG), Prof. Adedayo Badejo, congratulated the inductees, describing the occasion as a defining moment in their transition from students to professionals.
Speaking on the ceremony's theme, "Stepping into the Universe from the University," the Vice-Chancellor emphasised the critical role of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in national development. He encouraged the graduates to embrace emerging fields such as Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Cloud Computing, Data Science and the Internet of Things, while upholding professionalism, integrity, innovation and lifelong learning.
A Department That Has Outgrown Its Roots
Earlier, the Ag. Head of the Department of Computer Science, Dr. Thomas Ibharalu, highlighted the department's remarkable growth since its establishment in 1988 under the Department of Mathematical Sciences, noting that it has evolved into one of the university's largest academic departments. He applauded the recent establishment of the College of Computing Sciences, alongside the approval of six new computing-related degree programmes by the University Senate and the National Universities Commission (NUC).
Dr. Ibharalu charged the graduating students to uphold ethical values, embrace innovation, particularly in Artificial Intelligence, and utilise their knowledge and skills to develop practical solutions to real-world challenges.
Beyond Technical Skill
Delivering the keynote lecture titled "Stepping into the Universe from the University," Professor of Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics, Prof. Williams Onifade, reminded the graduates that graduation marks the beginning of a lifelong journey of learning and professional growth. He stressed that while technical expertise remains essential, qualities such as integrity, resilience, adaptability, leadership and ethical conduct were equally vital for sustained success.
He further encouraged the inductees to harness Artificial Intelligence responsibly, remain globally competitive while addressing local challenges, and build enduring legacies through meaningful contributions to society.
The CPN Registrar and Secretary, represented by Mr. Komolafe Akinyemi, commended the keynote speaker for his insightful presentation and urged the newly inducted graduates to become employers of labour rather than job seekers. He advised them to steer clear of cybercrime and other unethical practices, explaining that their admission as Graduate Members of the Council represents the first step towards attaining Chartered Membership.
Mr. Akinyemi also announced the Federal Government's creation of a professional Information Technology cadre, describing it as a landmark achievement for the computing profession. He congratulated the inductees and expressed appreciation to their parents and guardians for their support throughout their academic journey.
Earlier, the Dean of the College of Computing Sciences, Prof. Oluwasefunmi Arogundade, congratulated the newly inducted professionals and challenged them to translate their knowledge into practical solutions, transform their ideas into innovations and build careers that contribute to national development and global peace. She wished them fulfilling and successful professional careers.
The highpoint of the ceremony was the administration of the professional oath by officials of the CPN, formally inducting the 113 graduates into the computing profession. Other highlights included the presentation of gifts to the department by the graduating class and the recognition of Jolaoso Jephthah as the Overall Best Graduating Student.
