At 70, Unilorin’s Prof Soetan Bows Out, Leaves Global Footprint with Indigenous Language Innovations

 At 70, Unilorin’s Prof Soetan Bows Out, Leaves Global Footprint with Indigenous Language Innovations

By Idris Alooma 

As Prof. Aderonke Kofo Soetan marked her 70th birthday, she retired from the University of Ilorin with gratitude and fulfillment after a distinguished career that elevated the institution’s global profile in indigenous language education.

The former Sub-Dean of the Faculty of Education said she glorifies God and remains thankful to the university system for the opportunity to serve God, humanity, and both present and future generations. Her legacy rests on two patented instructional resources — _Opon Onka_ and the _ede yoruba dotun_ App — which she said placed Unilorin on the world map for promoting indigenous languages.

She said the University of Ilorin, where she served for several decades, is second to none in all ramifications in producing icons, leaders, and illustrious citizens who have been immensely beneficial to humanity.

Prof. Soetan’s academic mentorship is extensive, having supervised over 100 undergraduate projects, 25 Master’s dissertations, and 6 PhD theses. She commended the university management under Vice Chancellor Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, and the Faculty of Education for their support. She urged students, staff, and the public to download the _ede yoruba dotun_ app from the Play Store and leverage indigenous languages to enhance educational outcomes.

Beyond academics, the retiring don championed women’s empowerment, encouraging women to pursue politics and leadership while maintaining humility and respect for their spouses. She advised younger generations to remain focused, virtuous, and shun vices. Prof. Soetan’s innovations and advocacy have earned her global recognition, cementing Unilorin’s reputation as a hub for innovative education and indigenous language promotion.