Board of Trustees,

The Chancellor, Dr. Manu Chandaria,

Members of the University Council,

Interim Vice Chancellor, Dr. Omolola E. Omole-Odubekun,

University Senate,

Management Board,

Faculty, Staff, Students, and Alumni present,

Parents and Guardians,

The Graduating Class of 2023,

Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen.

Good Morning
I am glad to join you this morning as we honor the Graduating class of 2023. Each commencement ceremony offers USIU-Africa a unique opportunity to reflect on its accomplishments over the past 54 years. This year’s ceremony holds particular significance as we bestow an honorary Doctor of Laws upon our esteemed Chancellor, Dr. Manu Chandaria, in recognition of his visionary leadership and philanthropic contributions to society.

USIU-Africa bestows honorary degrees selectively upon remarkable individuals whose outstanding achievements, lifetime contributions, and prominence in a particular field or endeavor align closely with the core values of USIU-Africa. It goes without saying that Dr. Chandaria’s selfless service to both the nation and the world at large are an embodiment of the values USIU-Africa holds closely in action.

Dr. Chandaria's inspirational journey and seven-decade-long commitment to service have played a critical role in affirming him as a global philanthropist, a visionary leader across several sectors of the economy and passionate about the community around him. Through the Chandaria Foundation, he has transformed thousands of lives, including those within our own USIU-Africa community, demonstrating a lifelong commitment to making a meaningful impact. We hope that by bestowing on him this honorary Doctorate, each of you will be inspired to take up the mantle of service leadership and apply your skills and knowledge towards making a difference.

Ladies and Gentlemen,
USIU-Africa is passionate about impact and changing the lives around the communities around us. Each student seated here today has completed a community service project as part of their curricular requirements. During this ceremony, we will honor one student with the Community Service Award for exemplifying the University’s core values within the community throughout their study here. We have other initiatives such as the Annual Giving Day, the University-wide community service day, Freida Brown Day and other initiatives championed by our students, faculty and staff.

Ladies and Gentlemen
As we honor the graduating class of 2023, we also celebrate Dr. Manu Chandaria’s unwavering dedication to the betterment of the youth and to higher education is a commendable example to be followed the world over. We extend our deepest gratitude to you for leaving an indelible mark on all our hearts.

And now, to the Class of 2023
You are the changemakers who will leave a lasting impact on our nation and the world. As you embark on the next phase of your journey, I encourage you to approach it with boundless zeal, unwavering determination, and a strong work ethic.

Congratulations to the Class of 2023.
Thank You.