UTG Honours Dr. Akinwumi Adesina With School of Agriculture, Env, Sciences Naming at 18th University Convocation By Raymond Enoch
The University of The Gambia has named its School of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences after former President of the African Development Bank, Dr. Akinwumi Ayodeji Adesina, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to agriculture, economic development and transformation across Africa.
The honour was announced during the university’s 18th Convocation Ceremony held on May 2, 2026, in the presence of the Chancellor and President of The Gambia, Adama Barrow, senior government officials, academics and dignitaries from across the ECOWAS region.
Dr. Adesina, who attended the ceremony as the Chief Guest of Honour, received widespread applause as university authorities unveiled the renamed “Dr. Akinwumi Adesina School of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences,” describing the decision as a lasting tribute to a man whose leadership has impacted millions of lives across the continent.
In a citation presented at the ceremony, the university described Dr. Adesina as an “erudite son of Africa” and a “bastion of economic transformation,” praising his visionary leadership during his two terms as President of the African Development Bank Group.
The institution highlighted his remarkable role in advancing agricultural reforms in Nigeria during his tenure as Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development. Particular attention was given to his introduction of the electronic wallet system for fertilizer distribution, a policy that transformed access to farm inputs for millions of farmers and later became a model adopted in several African countries.
University officials also acknowledged the impact of the African Development Bank under Dr. Adesina’s leadership on the development of The Gambia. According to the institution, more than 310 million US dollars in development support and infrastructure projects were approved for the country during his time at the Bank, helping to strengthen economic growth and national resilience.
Speaking during the convocation, the Vice Chancellor of the university, Professor Herbert Robinson, said the renaming of the school would help attract international scholars, researchers and development partners to the institution.
He noted that Dr. Adesina’s life story remains a source of inspiration for young Africans pursuing excellence in leadership, innovation and service to humanity.
According to him, the former AfDB President represents the values of integrity, dedication and commitment to transforming societies through knowledge and practical solutions.
Dr. Adesina is widely respected globally for his work in agriculture and development finance. He is a recipient of the prestigious World Food Prize, often referred to as the Nobel Prize for Agriculture, as well as the Sunhak Peace Prize.
Before leading the African Development Bank, he held key international positions at the Rockefeller Foundation and the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa. He also earned a PhD in Agricultural Economics from Purdue University.
The colourful convocation ceremony attracted prominent academic leaders and government officials from across West Africa, including Professor Daouda Ngom and vice chancellors from leading universities in Nigeria, Ghana and Senegal.
The event celebrated not only the graduation of students but also the ideals of African unity, regional cooperation and self-reliance, values many speakers said are reflected in Dr. Adesina’s career and achievements.
For many attendees, the naming of the school marks a defining moment in the history of the University of The Gambia and a strong statement about the importance of investing in agriculture, education and African-led development solutions.
