The Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has called on graduates to embrace innovation and entrepreneurship.
He noted that the modern economy now rewards creativity over the traditional expectation of automatic employment.
Governor Oborevwori made the call on Saturday at the 18th Convocation Ceremony of the Delta State University (DELSU), Abraka.
Represented by his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, Ph.D., the Governor emphasized that while convocation marks the culmination of years of hard work, it also serves as a gateway to a competitive global landscape.
He said, "the realities of today’s world compel us to rethink the purpose of university education; in the 2025 graduation cycle, Delta State University, Abraka produced 5,109 graduates, while the four universities in our state collectively graduated 8,362 students.
"These figures highlight a growing challenge: the traditional expectation of automatic employment is no longer realistic: the modern economy rewards innovation, creativity, and adaptability.
"Our institutions must continue to reform their curricula to reflect contemporary realities, with greater emphasis on entrepreneurship, digital literacy, and problem-solving skills; our graduates must be equipped not just to seek jobs, but to create them.
"Today, we celebrate the remarkable achievements of the 2024/2025 set of graduates who have successfully completed their undergraduate and postgraduate programmes; I warmly congratulate each and every one of you.
"Convocation is not merely a ceremony; it is both the culmination of years of discipline and hard work, and the gateway to new opportunities and responsibilities.
"Education remains the bedrock of sustainable development and societal transformation; it empowers individuals, strengthens institutions, and drives economic growth.
"As a government, we recognize the strategic importance of this sector, which is why we have remained committed to supporting our tertiary institutions through the prompt payment of staff salaries, regular release of subventions, and steady investment in infrastructure.
"I am proud to note that Delta State University has continued to uphold its mandate of teaching, research, and community service, earning its place as a reputable centre of academic excellence.
"However, the increasing demand for infrastructural development and academic expansion in our universities requires a collective response.
"While government bears primary responsibility for funding public institutions, the task of sustaining excellence must be shared; I therefore call on well-meaning individuals, corporate organizations, alumni, and other stakeholders to partner with us in strengthening our educational system.
"Such collaboration is essential if we are to meet the evolving demands of the 21st century.
"At the same time, the expansion of the internal revenue base of all universities in the State has become inevitable; I therefore call on the administrations of these institutions to continually explore innovative strategies for enhancing revenue generation, so as to complement government efforts and sustain the delivery of quality education.
"To our dear graduates, the future now rests in your hands; the knowledge and values you have acquired here must serve as tools for personal advancement and societal impact; be bold in your ambitions, resilient in the face of challenges, and guided by integrity in all your endeavours.
'The world you are entering is highly competitive, but it is also rich with opportunities for those who are prepared.
"I commend the parents, guardians, and sponsors whose sacrifices have made this day possible. Your investment has yielded worthy ambassadors who will contribute meaningfully to society.
"I also salute the Governing Council for its strategic oversight, the Vice-Chancellor and principal officers for their leadership, and the entire staff and students for sustaining a culture of excellence and discipline within this institution.
"Once again, I congratulate our graduates and wish you success in all your future endeavours. May Almighty God guide your steps and grant you wisdom as you embark on this new phase of life.
"To our esteemed guests who have travelled from far and near, I wish you safe journeys back to your destinations."
The Vice Chancellor of DELSU, Prof. Samuel Asagba in an address, revealed that 107 graduands bagged First Class and thanked Governor Oborevwori "for his unwavering goodwill and exceptional to our institution; this commitment is clearly demonstrated by the award of the contract for the completion of the long-abandoned Senate building, the consistent and timely payment of staff salaries, and the recent implementation of new medical allowances for our lecturers at DELSUTH, Oghara who are medical doctors along with the settlement of their arrears.
"These landmark interventions, amounting to several billions of naira, are unprecedented in the history of our University, for this, we remain immensely grateful."
The graduands included 5,109 for First Degree Programme, 904 for Diploma Programme, 159 for Affiliation Programme while 181 persons bagged Doctor of Philosophy Degrees, 477 Degrees in Masters, 08 Master of Philosophy and 205 Postgraduate Diploma.
