The 40th Anniversary and Reunion of the MBBS & BDS class of 1985 took place today, June 9, 2025, at the Paul Hendrickse Lecture Theatre, University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, between 11 AM and 5 PM. 29 members of the class were physically present, while some joined online. Also in attendance were the spouses of some of the class members, and current students from various MBBS & BDS classes.
Themed “Students’ Day and Legacy Sharing”, the event focused on mentoring, storytelling, and celebrating the legacy of the MBBS & BDS Class of 1985. It began with a keynote address by Pst. Dr Tony Rapu on the topic “Seasons of Life: Start strong, Stay Steadfast, Stay Bright”. Dr Tony Rapu stated that life has three seasons, which he categorized into morning, afternoon, and evening, based on the proverbial three scores and ten years of a lifetime. He explained that morning is the early part of life where one dedicates oneself to learning and acquiring relevant skills; the afternoon is a time to use the knowledge and skills gained for influence, growth, and impact; and the evening is a time to reflect on the legacy built. He emphasized the need to cultivate foresight in the morning. “Create a vision for the future,” he admonished, “And this vision requires foresight”.
Following the keynote address were panel presentations by distinguished alumni. This included Dr Akin O. Ayodeji, Dr Tomina George, Dr Bola Kehinde, Prof Edward C. Oforka, Dr Babatunde Okewale, and Prof Rev’d David Olayiwola Soile. Each presenter shared their life journey so far, which was very inspiring to the audience, especially as many students could relate with the experiences they had through medical school, as well as ways to navigate life after school.
Next was a general discussion and Q & A session with the panelists and student leaders. In addition to the aforementioned panelists were Dr Abib Olamitoye, and Rt Hon Sir Dr Chief Felix Nwani. The student leaders included the SU President, Covenant Odedele; Inioluwa Joshua, the current President of the University of Ibadan Medical Students’ Association (UIMSA); Ayotunde Oni, the current Chairman of Alexander Brown Hall (ABH); and Osaretin Vanessa, the current Financial Secretary of UIMSA and ABH Female Affairs Minister.
During the general discussion, key topics surrounding medical schooling and career life were discussed, while the Q & A session addressed pressing questions asked by the audience. The Class of ’85 Comperes were Professor Olayinka Omigbodun, former provost of the College of Medicine, and Dr Ikoedem Ibanga; while Student Comperes were Angela Edhere, and Victor Mong.
The event ended with a vote of thanks by Dr Yetunde (Akinsipe) Shitta-Bey, followed by refreshments, of which the alumni dined together at ABH cafeteria, while students received theirs at Paul Hendrickse.
Benedict Ugor
