29/07/2026
DR. AFOLABI URGES YOUTHS TO PRIORITIZE MENTAL HEALTH FOR ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE AT ADELEKE UNIVERSITY SCHOOLS GRADUATION.
The Chief Medical Director of UNIOSUN Teaching Hospital, Osogbo, Dr. Babatunde Afolabi, has called on youths to take their mental health seriously, saying it plays a critical role in academic performance and overall life success.
Dr. Afolabi made this call while delivering a lecture on _“Student Mental Health and Stress Management”_ at the 9th Graduation and Award Ceremony of the 2026 Set of Adeleke University Schools, Ede, Osun State.
Defining mental health, the CMD said it _“entails how we interact with people, how we think, how we cope with stress, how we take decisions and how we control our emotions.”_
He noted that while there is no stress-free life, the way challenges are managed makes the difference.
_“As a Physician, I have discovered that a lot of people are suffering silently from mental stress,”_ he said. _“That is why it is important for you to build resilience early.”_
Dr. Afolabi highlighted common causes of mental stress among students to include fear of failure, non-assimilation of studies and an unstable state of mind. He introduced the “STRONG” Principles to the graduands and charged them to put God first, Choose their friends wisely, Stay away from illicit drugs and substances, Be empathetic, Always show gratitude, Be a person of integrity
He further urged the graduands to be positive influences in society and to cultivate a global mindset for knowledge acquisition.
_“Always avail yourselves with the mind of gaining knowledge globally. It will help you in shaping your future,”_ he advised.
The CMD also appealed to parents and guardians to actively monitor their children and wards, give them emotional and financial support, avoid unnecessary comparisons, and maintain open communication with them.
In his remarks, Dr. Afolabi specially appreciated the Chairman of Council, Proprietor/Pro-Chancellor of Adeleke University Schools, Dr. Adedeji Adeleke, and the Proprietress/Director of Adeleke University Ventures, Yeyeluwa Modupe Adeleke Sanni, for their commitment to shaping future generations.
He described them as _“a shining light who have brought Academic Excellence to the school through unwavering dedication to standard education and philanthropic gesture.”_
The ceremony featured the graduation of the 2026 set, presentation of awards to outstanding students, Cultural display and goodwill messages from stakeholders.
The event was attended by dignitaries including Dr. Mrs. Adebimpe Afolabi, a Consultant Paediatric Cardiologist and wife of the Chief Medical Director.
Signed:
Abimbola Idowu.
Head, Corporate Affairs Department.