The 1990 set of the University of Ibadan’s Doctor of Veterinary Medicine alumni has encouraged young Nigerians to consider careers in veterinary medicine, citing the vast opportunities the profession offers.
The group gave the advice during its 35th anniversary celebration held at Ibadan Boys’ High School, Oke Bola.
Speaking at the event, the immediate past chairman of the Veterinary Association of Nigeria, Oyo State chapter, Dr. James Adeyoyin, said early exposure to career guidance would help students make informed decisions about their future.
“As graduates of 35 years, we have seen the ups and downs of this profession. We want to tell the younger pupils to join the profession. We encourage them to maximise the opportunities because veterinary medicine even gives room to practise in related fields,” he said.
The class captain and acting chairman of the 1990 set, Professor Oyeduntan Adediran, expressed concern over the increasing migration of Nigerian veterinary doctors to foreign countries.
“We have noticed that many of our trained veterinary doctors have been attracted abroad, leaving the country with an insufficient workforce. That is why we decided to expose the younger generation to the profession early,” he said.
In his welcome address, the Principal of Ibadan Boys’ High School, Dr. Rasheed Fasasi, commended the alumni for the initiative, noting that the gesture would make a meaningful impact on the students.
The head boy, Master Emmanuel Adenuga, led other students in appreciating the donation of physics, chemistry, and biology textbooks, as well as a desktop computer for the school library.
“On behalf of the pupils, we appreciate the 1990 set of the University of Ibadan Veterinary Medicine profession for this rare opportunity. It will help us in choosing our careers,” Adenuga said.
The students assured the visiting alumni that the materials would be put to proper use and would inspire greater interest in science-related studies.
