By Jimmy Fatunbi
Members of the University of Lagos Department of English Alumni (UDEA) have encouraged graduates to embrace lifelong learning, adaptability and continuous self-development, stressing that an English degree should serve as a springboard to diverse professional opportunities rather than a limitation.
The charge was delivered during the maiden reunion of the association held at the Afe Babalola Hall, University of Lagos, where the Group Executive of The Alternative Bank, Dr. Jekwu Ozoemene, presented the reunion lecture titled, “Unlocking Global Opportunities with English Studies: The Akoka Legacy.”
Drawing from his transition from English studies to executive leadership in the banking sector, Ozoemene urged graduates to remain open to learning and personal reinvention.
“Your starting point does not determine your destination. What determines your destination is your willingness to learn, adapt and invest in yourself as a student. Learn new things, understand new markets and build new networks. Every career shift should be a deliberate choice rather than a departure from your academic foundation,” he said.
Speaking on the place of English graduates in an increasingly AI-driven world, Ozoemene noted that while artificial intelligence continues to transform industries, the future would still depend on human strengths such as contextual decision-making, critical interpretation and complex social interaction.
He also advised members of the university community to uphold integrity, exercise patience, invest in personal development and regularly evaluate their progress.
Veteran actress Joke Silva, in her remarks, expressed concern that technological advancement was outpacing investment in human development. She urged English graduates not to regard teaching as a second-choice profession but as a noble and impactful career.
“If you get the opportunity to teach, embrace it with confidence,” she said, adding that Nigeria needed to place greater emphasis on developing the next generation of teachers.
Also speaking, Professor of Digital Linguistics and Discourse, Tunde Ope-Davies, reflected on his academic journey, recalling how a scholarship to Germany influenced his research trajectory and professional growth.
He attributed his success to values such as grit, discipline, faith and perseverance, noting that he made considerable personal sacrifices, including committing personal resources, to support the establishment of an academic programme in which he played a pioneering role.
The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, who was represented at the event, urged members of the university community to continue prioritising the safety, welfare and overall wellbeing of students.
