Prof. Olumide Olajide has been named Head of the Department of Adult Education in the Faculty of Education at the University of Ibadan, a move DAKA Foundation says reflects his decades of scholarship and leadership in the field. The philanthropic organisation, where Olajide serves as a Director responsible for policy and strategy formulation, congratulated him on the new role in a statement issued by its Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Dr Kazeem Adesina Abidikugu.

Abidikugu, who holds the title Agba Akin Bobajiro of Ibadanland, described the appointment as well deserved, comparing it to putting a square peg in a square hole. He expressed confidence that Olajide would excel in the position, citing his reputation for hard work, intelligence and dedication to assigned duties.

According to Abidikugu, the appointment is the product of diligence, resilience, professionalism and commitment to human development, qualities he said Olajide has consistently shown across more than two decades of teaching, research and academic leadership. He noted that Olajide has brought immeasurable value to DAKA Foundation’s programmes over the years, particularly through his skill in policy formulation, which has strengthened the organisation’s work supporting less privileged members of society.

Abidikugu, a United Kingdom based psychiatric consultant, described Olajide as a distinguished scholar in adult education and community development who earned his Bachelor of Education, Master of Education, and Doctor of Philosophy degrees at the University of Ibadan. He revealed that Olajide began his academic career at the Institution as an Assistant Lecturer and rose through the ranks to become a Professor, building a reputation for excellence in teaching, research and community engagement.

Abidikugu disclosed that Olajide’s research centres on adult education and community development, with particular focus on public policy, gender, community health, poverty alleviation, social capital, income generating activities and community participation.

He prayed for divine guidance for Olajide in the new role and stated that DAKA Foundation expects him to contribute further to the development of its programmes and strategies as it continues serving people in need of support.