We've been acquaintances since March 2011, at a point we became friends and discuss whenever we had the time; at a stage there was an intermission in our communication. When we connected again, it seems there was no break in between, everything just as it was, we just picked it up where we left it; I'll say this is a sign of respect, maturity and spirit of real friendship. I could be a bit sensitive at times, but being a super gentleman that he is, he knows how to keep our friendship going. For this, I respect him and I see a good sign of leadership in him. I respect his calmness that doesn't lack strength, with my experience with him, calmness doesn't mean one is weak. Calmness is a sign of strength and wisdom. Kolawole is a stable and focused man. To know a bit about him, read the interview below:
You are a leader in different departments: what's leadership to you? Leadership is sacrifice.
How far would you go to sacrifice? As much as God gives me. I have started in my own little way.
Good communication skill is part of good leadership; how well do you communicate with your subordinates? Engagement is what drives my relationship with all strata of the college.
Do you live on the campus or off campus? No provost quarters. I'm planning to build one before I leave office anyway.
Okay. Which quarters do you have in your college? None. The previous administration did not see the need for such thing, their interest is completely different.
What was their interest and what's yours? Their interest was about what to get from the system, giving little or nothing back. As for me, my mission is to leave the school much better than I met it.
How do you want to do it? Blocking the drain pipes. Utilising the resources available to us effectively and efficiently. Accountability, fair play and being creative and resourceful in managing the meagre resources.
How many years is your term? 4 years, renewable.
We know that you have been with different institutions and doing your best; what are your achievements so far and do you merit your current appointment? I won't be able to assess myself, my dear. You may need to carry out an independent assessment.
Please, tell us about your achievements, you know your journey of life than anyone else: My journey is not that straight, but I have ensured that my life is governed by doing unto others what I want done to me. I have been a teacher mentoring people to become the best in the world. Served my universities (University of Benin, University of Nsukka, University of Lagos and University of Ilorin) in different offices. Engaged in consultancy with different organizations.
How brave would you describe yourself? I am a man in my own.
If you have to look back into your journey: is there anything you would have loved to do, but you haven't done? Absolutely nothing, because I didn't dream or plan to be what I am today.
What's family to you? Life, my total being, my essence.
What are your plans for the next two years? For me, I want to do my best for the society and the community I am serving. I have always tried to do my utmost and allow God to crown my efforts. I wish to be remembered for turning the fortunes of the college around positively. Give the school the publicity, in such a way that students will be rushing to join us. I ultimately would wish that the college attain a degree awarding institution.
What inspires you? Anyone who demonstrates simplicity, creativity and resourcefulness. I applaud decency and humility.
Who's your mentor? Prof. Michael Omolewa. He was the former president of UNESCO assembly and Nigeria permanent representative to UNESCO. Today, he's an emeritus Professor at the University of Ibadan.
Are you charitable? I'm a consultant to a few organisations and foundation assisting indigent students of Ijeshaland.
What do you think is the need of most people in Ijeshaland? Real education. Transformative education founded on experiential learning. Some of our people are lazy, they lack the zeal and ability to take risks. Most times they are indolent. Hence, they put everything affecting them in the spiritual realm.
If you were not a teacher/educator; what would you have been? Actually, I would have been a lawyer, I have a few talents though. I'm a little gifted with manipulating words for people to laugh.
For people that don't know you; who's Kolawole Kazeem? Kola is a simple but principled man. He's a man with a mind of his own on all matters. He's decent and hard-working. He doesn't take people for granted. No dull moment with him.
Thank you: You too.
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