THE Early Childhood Association of Nigeria (ECAN) celebrated the achievements of graduating students in the field of Early Childhood Education with its 2nd Induction Ceremony, held at Lagos State University (LASU) main campus in Ojo, Lagos, on Wednesday, March 27, 2024, at the Conference Hall of the Faculty of Education.
Representing the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, mni, NPOM, was Prof. Olufemi Lawal, the Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, who emphasised the significance of early childhood education as the foundation that shapes one's future. She urged the inductees to become exemplary ambassadors for the Department and the University as a whole.
Prof. Ife Abodunrin, the Head of the Department of Educational Foundations and Counselling Psychology, represented Prof Solomon Makinde, the Dean of the Faculty of Education, and highlighted the crucial role of early childhood education in all areas of learning and encouraged the inductees to appreciate the value of ECAN, which would further enhance their careers.
Addressing the gathering, Prof. Babajide Abidogun, the National President of ECAN, acknowledged the significance of early childhood education in laying the groundwork for lifelong learning and development. He emphasised the responsibility of the inductees as future educators to nurture and support the growth of young children, ensuring their access to quality education.
Prof. Abidogun also emphasised the benefits of ECAN membership, including access to resources, support, and networking opportunities that would empower the inductees to make a positive impact on children and families across Nigeria.
Meanwhile, Dr (Mrs) Ireti Odebowale from the Department of Educational Foundations and Counselling Psychology delivered a lecture on "Investing in Your Future: The Importance of Professional Induction and Continuous Education in Early Childhood Education (ECE) and Related Disciplines,” where she stated that professional induction provides the necessary skills, knowledge, and resources to excel in one's career.
She stressed that continuous education is an investment in professional growth, the well-being of children, and the advancement of the field of ECE. Dr Odebowale encouraged the inductees to embrace lifelong learning and seize every opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of young children.
The induction ceremony concluded with the administration of the oath of allegiance by Prof. Babajide Abidogun, the National President of ECAN, and the formal admission of the inductees into the association by Prof. Ajike Florence Osanyin, the Founder of ECAN.
