Physical participation at ceremonies slated for the upcoming 2021 convocation and award of prizes in the 73rd Foundation Day of the University of Ibadan, Oyo State, shall be open only to first class graduands and those for honour.
The university’s director of public communication, Olatunji Oladejo, disclosed this in a statement on Friday, noting that the institution will not allow any form of partying or social gathering during the convocation period.
The statement said; “We cannot take the risk of inviting over 7,000 graduates and parents, guardians, and well-wishers into the venue.
“This is what is obtainable in all institutions all over the world at this time. Therefore, the University of Ibadan cannot flout the rules and protocols of the Federal Government of Nigeria governing COVID-19.
“Given the above, attendance at the International Conference Centre is open to First Class Honours graduands and recipients of prizes, awards only as this is the number that can be conveniently accommodated with the maintenance of the appropriate physical distance.”
He, however, directed parents, visitors and other categories of graduates to connect online to the convocation proceedings via the university’s website.
Mr Oladejo tried to explain that the university decision is not a “bar or ban” of graduates without a first-class.
“Graduation is a very important milestone in the lives of our graduates. We hereby congratulate these graduands on the successful completion of their programs at the university,” Oladejo said.
