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PROFESSOR AJIBADE YETUNDE ADEDOYIN: A LEGACY OF EDUCATIONAL EXCELLENCE

Early Life and Education

Professor Ajibade Yetunde Adedoyin, a distinguished educator, was born on the 11th of June 1960 in Ibadan, Oyo State to Late Venerable O. A and Chief (Mrs) S. M Lokulo-Sodipe. Raised in a supportive and education-focused environment, she developed a passion for learning at an early age. Her commitment to academic excellence paved the way for a remarkable journey in the field of education.

After completing her secondary education at St. Annes School, Molete in Ibadan (1976) where she was a sportsperson and active participant in the inter-house Festival of Arts, Prof. Yetunde Ajibade pursued her higher education at various prestigious institutions. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Education (French) from the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University) in 1982. During her undergraduate years, she displayed a remarkable aptitude for languages and education, setting the foundation for her future academic endeavors.

Prof. Yetunde's thirst for knowledge led her to further her studies at the Centre Universitaire d’Etudes Francaises from 1980 to 1981, where she acquired a Diplome d’Etudes Francaises. This experience not only deepened her language proficiency but also broadened her cultural understanding and perspective.

A Journey of Academic Excellence

Driven by her passion for language education, Yetunde pursued advanced studies at the Obafemi Awolowo University, where she completed her Master of Arts in Modern European Languages in 1987. Her commitment to scholarly pursuits continued, culminating in a Ph.D. in Language Education from the University of Ibadan in 1994. Her doctoral research focused on innovative approaches to language instruction, setting the stage for her future contributions to educational methodologies.

A Career Dedicated to Education

Professor Ajibade Yetunde Adedoyin's career in academia commenced in 1982 as she joined the Adeyemi College of Education, Ondo, contributing her expertise to the institution's educational endeavors. In 1983, she transitioned to the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) as a Graduate Assistant in the Department of Arts and Social Science Education. This marked the beginning of a long and fruitful association with the university.

Throughout her tenure at OAU, Professor Ajibade's dedication to education and her exceptional contributions led to a series of promotions and advancements. She progressed from the role of Graduate Assistant to ultimately attaining the prestigious rank of full Professor in 2012. Her journey through the academic ranks included roles such as Assistant Lecturer, Lecturer II, Lecturer I, Senior Lecturer, and Reader, each stage underscoring her expertise and commitment to her field.

Notably, she served in various units and committees within and outside the University. Within the University, among other points of service, she was the acting Head of the Department of Special Education and Curriculum Studies (2010-2014); pioneer Head of Department of Arts and Social Science Education (2014-2016); Deputy Provost, Postgraduate College (2018-2019) and; first female Provost, Postgraduate College (2019-2021). Outside the University, she served as as external examiner and moderator to the Faculty of Education, University of Ibadan; external examiner to the Department of Arts and Social Sciences Education, University of Lagos and; external assessor to the University of Ibadan, University of Benin, University of Uyo, Ado-Ekiti University and Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta.

With her dynamic teaching style and innovative approaches to language instruction, Professor Ajibade became a beloved and respected figure among her colleagues and students. Her impact extended beyond the classroom, as she played a pivotal role in shaping the curriculum and pedagogical practices within the Faculty of Education and the University  as a whole. Suffice it to mention that she played a significant role in instituting the [https://jci-ilorin.org.ng/index.php/jci/article/view/93#:~:text=The%20Promoting%20Excellence%20in%20Teaching,%2C%20Ile%2DIfe%2C%20Nigeria. Promoting Excellence in Teaching programme], a primal pedagogical training programme for all lecturers in the University in spite of disciplines, in 2012. The programme has since became a model for Universities in Nigeria and in sub-Saharan Africa.

Research and Scholarly Contributions

Professor Ajibade's scholarly contributions spanned various areas of language education, curriculum development, and instructional methodology. She supervised numerous graduate and undergraduate students, guiding them through research projects and dissertations. Her dedication to mentoring the next generation of educators underscored her commitment to the advancement of her field.

In recognition of her dedication to research and academic excellence, Professor Ajibade secured research grants, including the TETFund Institutional Based Grant in 2019, which facilitated her research endeavours and contributed to the enrichment of educational practices.

Contributions to Professional Bodies

Professor Ajibade was not only committed to her institution but also to the broader educational community. She was an active member of several professional organizations, including the Ife School Curriculum Improvement Group, the International Association of Language Educators, and the National Consortium for Improving Curriculum and Instruction. The last two are her brainchild. She was the first President of these two professional bodies till her demise though the last is yet in its pre-incorporation phase. Her involvement in these organizations allowed her to collaborate with educators worldwide and contribute to the evolution of educational (best) practices on a global scale.

Legacy and Passing

Professor Ajibade Yetunde Adedoyin's legacy in the realm of education and language arts and language instruction is immeasurable. Her dedication to excellence, innovative teaching methodologies, and commitment to mentorship have left an indelible mark on her students, colleagues, and the field of education as a whole. Her passing on the 8th of August, 2023 was a profound loss to the academic community, but her contributions continue to inspire generations of educators. She is indeed a treasure to many and her legacies will forever be in our hearts, informing our present and future courses of actions.

Personal Life

Beyond her professional achievements, Professor Ajibade was a loving spouse, a dedicated mother and a devout christian. She was married and blessed with three children, each of whom has grown into successful individuals in their own right. Her ability to balance her academic pursuits with her family responsibilities showcased her resilience and determination. She was fondly called Yate (Yettie), Mama Ajibade, Mummy Ajibade, Auntie, Sisi Yate, Sister mi, etc. by friends, acquaintances, mentees and colleagues.

Conclusion

In the annals of Nigerian education, Professor Ajibade Yetunde Adedoyin's name will forever be associated with innovation, dedication, and excellence. Her journey from a young scholar with a passion for languages to a respected Professor has left an indelible mark on the field of education. Her legacy serves as an inspiration to educators, learners, and researchers alike, reminding us all of the transformative power of knowledge, dedication to service to humanity and the importance of a lifelong commitment to learning.