The University of Lagos (UNILAG) has inaugurated the English Department Alumni Lecture Series to promote humanities education as a pathway to global opportunities.

The university disclosed this in a statement, with a maiden lecture titled ‘Unlocking Global Opportunities with English Studies’ organised by the UNILAG English Language Department Alumni Association.

UNILAG’s vice-chancellor, Folasade Ogunsola, described the alumni as critical partners in the university’s development. Ms Ogunsola said supporting one’s alma mater was a responsibility, not charity, urging the alumni to contribute to the department’s growth and infrastructure development.

She said the global shift from STEM to STEAM reflected the increasing importance of the arts in driving innovation, creativity and competitiveness. Ms Ogunsola also urged the association to renovate the department’s ageing facilities and sustain the lecture as an annual reunion and networking platform.

The dean of the Faculty of Arts, UNILAG, Akanbi Ilupeju, described the faculty as the university’s pacesetter, stressing that proficiency in the English Language remained essential across all disciplines.

Mr Ilupeju said the department had produced vice-chancellors and other distinguished professionals, demonstrating the enduring value of English studies.

The head of the Department of English Language, UNILAG, Augustine Nwagbara, commended the alumni for investing in the department and inspiring students through their achievements.

The chairman of the alumni association, Princewill Akamo, thanked the university management for supporting the initiative. He also praised the alumni for their impressive turnout, describing the inaugural lecture as historic.

Delivering the lecture, Jekwu Ozoemene, an alumnus of the department and group executive at the Alternative Bank, encouraged students to maximise opportunities offered by English studies.

Mr Ozoemene identified critical thinking, effective communication, analytical reasoning and writing as skills that shaped his career across finance, healthcare and public policy.

He urged students to combine academic knowledge with market realities, embrace lifelong learning and remain adaptable in an evolving global environment.

Participants called for stronger alumni engagement, expanded mentorship opportunities and institutionalisation of the lecture as an annual event.

Veteran actress Joke Silva and other notable alumni, academics and students were at the event.

(NAN)