Africa-Press – Sierra-Leone. Rokel Commercial Bank’s Head of Public Relations, Aruna Dumbuya, has delivered an inspiring address at the Weldios University Convocation and Matriculation Ceremony in the Benin Republic.
Serving as a special guest, Mr. Dumbuya was also awarded a distinguished plaque of commendation by Weldios University and the All Africa Students Union (AASU). The recognition was presented during the institution’s 10th Convocation and Matriculation Ceremony held on 25th November 2025 in Cotonou.
The honour follows his recent representation of Rokel Commercial Bank at the 4th Weldios University, EPIK Leaders and AASU Symposium in Rabat, Morocco. The symposium, themed “Cultivating Prosperity: Advancing Agriculture and Intra-Africa Trade for Sustainable Development,” spotlighted the Bank’s contributions to African development and featured Mr. Dumbuya delivering a keynote address on behalf of the Managing Director, Dr. Ekundayo W. Gilpin. Organisers later extended a special invitation for him to join the Benin ceremony as a distinguished guest and speaker.
Delivering his statement at the convocation, held under the theme “From Connections to Impact: Building Communities in a Hyper-Digital World,” Mr. Dumbuya praised Weldios University’s ten-year journey of academic growth and continental relevance. He commended the bilingual institution for transforming from a bold vision into a centre of excellence dedicated to innovation, economic development and cultural advancement.
He underscored the university’s mission of nation-building through problem-solving education, noting that its programmes continue to nurture leaders capable of developing solutions to Africa’s systemic challenges.
In his detailed and inspiring address, Mr. Dumbuya explored the evolving relationship between digital connectivity and real-world community impact. He reflected on how hyper-connectivity has reshaped global communication, arguing that although digital tools shrink distances, they also place a responsibility on young people to translate connections into tangible societal benefits. Quoting the late technology icon Steve Jobs, he warned students against allowing social media to distract them from their purpose, urging them to cultivate authenticity over imitation.
To outgoing students, he emphasised that success will be determined not by the size of one’s online network but by the real change one creates. He encouraged graduates to use technology ethically and creatively to address societal challenges. With skills in data, analytics and innovation, he urged them to become architects of practical solutions in their professional fields.
He reminded them: “Your Weldios education is your springboard; go forth and make your digital footprint one of integrity, purpose and lasting impact.”
To the matriculating class of 2025, Mr. Dumbuya offered a roadmap for academic success. He advised them to balance digital and personal connections by investing in face-to-face relationships built on trust and collaboration. He urged students to seek credible information, avoid misinformation and uphold integrity in online spaces.
He encouraged them to take advantage of student bodies, extracurricular activities and innovation hubs that help define purpose and build essential skills. He added that Weldios University’s next decade should prioritise ethical digital literacy and innovations addressing societal challenges.
Mr. Dumbuya also outlined opportunities available to the institution as it enters its second decade, including promoting digital citizenship as an academic pillar. He concluded by urging both graduates and freshmen to become “community builders’’ who use digital tools as catalysts for meaningful transformation.
In recognition of his leadership, distinguished representation and contributions to youth empowerment across the continent, Weldios University and AASU presented him with a plaque of commendation. Event organisers noted that his work both through Rokel Commercial Bank and personal engagements reflects a consistent commitment to African development, particularly in education and youth-focused initiatives.
During the ceremony, Mr. Dumbuya interacted with notable figures including Dr. Munirat Antoinette “Anto” Lecky, Creative Director of Weldios University and well-known Nigerian media personality and entrepreneur. Dr. Lecky, famed as a Big Brother Naija semi-finalist, leads several ventures and directs The Live Wire Project, an NGO empowering girls and promoting civic participation in Nigeria.
Also present was the Registrar of Weldios University, a seasoned administrator with over a decade of experience in academic governance and credited with advancing the institution’s academic and administrative excellence.
Closing his address, Mr. Dumbuya stated:
“Today, we do not just graduate individuals; we unleash a new generation of community builders. May your digital connections be a catalyst for meaningful change. The future is yours to build.”
He thanked parents and guardians for their support and praised Weldios University for its commitment to nurturing ethical, innovative and impactful African leaders.
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