The immediate past Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic) of the University of Ibadan, Professor Abideen Adeyinka Aderinto has described the Hijab crisis which rocked the International School University of Ibadan as the most challenging period of his tenure.
Our correspondent recalled that the authority of the UI school had last year denied some female Muslim students the right to wear Hijab on top of their school uniforms.
The denial generated a lot of controversies which later made the parents of the Muslim students to drag the institution to an Oyo State High Court, though the plaintiffs and the respondents have been advised to settle out of the court.
But, Aderinto while speaking said that the period of the Hijab controversy was the most challenging time for him while serving as DVC (academic) in the university.
Aderinto who bowed out after finishing his two-year term in office stated this at the reception held in his honour by the Department of Sociology of the University.
The DVC while serving, was also the Chairman Board of Governors of the International School University of Ibadan.
Speaking at the reception, Aderinto stated that, “pressures were mounting” on him from “both within and outside the university system” but maintained that existing laws must be obeyed irrespective of your religious, social and educational affiliations.
According to him, the International School remains center of excellence winning international awards owing to the commitment of those at the helms of affairs.
He said, “With the support of the Vice Chancellor, Professor Idowu Olayinka and in line with his agenda for the university, we have achieved in virtually every area with the available meagre resources available to the university. I know the Vice Chancellor will continue to achieve greater feats before he leaves office.
“I have discharged my duties as assigned with diligence, integrity and I thank God that I finished in good health. I grew up in UI and University of Ibadan is all I know. I will continue to contribute my quota to its development and greatness”
Head of the Department of Sociology, Professor Ifeanyi Onyeonoru described the achievements of Professor Aderinto in office as great feats admonishing office holders to show excellence in the discharge of their duties.
He noted that service to humanity and societal development rather than selfish aggrandizement should guide those holding key positions in society so they will have a good return to their home when they leave office.
