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		<title>At 50, Dr. Sola Owolabi Uses Books and Faith to Inspire a Generation</title>
		<link>https://optimisticscholar.com/at-50-dr-sola-owolabi-uses-books-and-faith-to-inspire-a-generation/</link>
					<comments>https://optimisticscholar.com/at-50-dr-sola-owolabi-uses-books-and-faith-to-inspire-a-generation/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Optimistic Scholar]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 15 Dec 2025 01:25:30 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Optimistic Point]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Scholar Spotlight]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[AfricanScholar]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bibliotherapy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[BooksAndFaith]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DrSolaOwolabi]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[EducationForChange]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[FaithAndLearning]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[InspiringAGeneration]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[OptimisticPoint]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[OptimisticScholar]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[PurposeDrivenLife]]></category>
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<description><![CDATA[At 50, Dr. Sola Owolabi Uses Books and Faith to Inspire a Generation. From personal adversity to public impact, a scholar’s journey at midlife&#8230;]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h1>At 50, Dr. Sola Owolabi Uses Books and Faith to Inspire a Generation. From personal adversity to public impact, a scholar’s journey at midlife</h1>
By Dr. Ayodele John Alonge, Atlanta, USA 
Chief Creative Officer
As Dr. Sola Emmanuel Owolabi marks his 50th birthday on 15 December, his life and professional journey present a compelling narrative of faith-informed optimism, intellectual discipline, and sustained commitment to social transformation. A librarian, scholar, bibliotherapist, cinematherapy practitioner, author of The Library Boy, and mentor to many young people, Dr Owolabi’s journey reflects a dynamic interplay between personal life experiences and professional purpose.
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In a reflective interview on OptimisticPoint—a platform devoted to storytelling and the articulation of hope—hosted by Dr. Ayodele John Alonge, Dr. Owolabi, who is currently based in the Netherlands, shared insights into the formative influences, defining challenges, and enduring beliefs that continue to shape and guide his life and work.
<hr />
<h2>Formative Experiences and the Foundations of Optimism</h2>
Reflecting on his childhood and early years, Dr. Owolabi identified his faith-based upbringing and early institutional environments as central to the development of the optimistic outlook that has guided his life.
<blockquote>“I think there are two things. One is the Christian environment—the system I found myself in, especially the Anglican Church where I was part of the Boys’ Brigade.”</blockquote>
Although he noted that he was not yet born again at that stage, the disciplined and competitive environment fostered aspiration, resilience, and a strong work ethic.
<blockquote>“We were challenged. You must go to school. You see competition. Even if we were not perfect, the environment wanted us to be good, so we were striving.”</blockquote>
This formative influence was significantly strengthened in 1992 when he made a personal commitment to the Christian faith.
<blockquote>“When I gave my life to Christ in 1992, that was when I began to have a real positive outlook on life—through interaction with men of God, especially my mentor, Reverend John Kelly, who God used to help me grow spiritually.”</blockquote>
These early experiences laid the ethical and intellectual foundations for his later academic and professional engagements.
<hr />
<h2>A Defining Challenge That Tested Optimism</h2>
Like most meaningful life journeys, Dr. Owolabi’s path has been marked by moments of significant adversity. One of the most defining occurred during his time as a diploma student at the University of Ibadan, when his mother was arrested over a financial dispute.
<blockquote>“That experience was something that wanted to break me—but instead, it brought something out of me.”</blockquote>
He recalled the sense of helplessness he felt while attempting to speak on his mother’s behalf at the police station.
<blockquote>“When the policeman asked me who I was and I said I was a student, he shouted at me to leave—or be locked up with my mother.”</blockquote>
The emotional impact of that encounter became a turning point in his life.
<blockquote>“As I was walking on the road crying, I made a resolution: I must be great.”</blockquote>
For Dr. Owolabi, greatness has always been defined beyond material success.
<blockquote>“To be great means to command respect—not just financially, but in wisdom, connection, and character.”</blockquote>
This resolution has continued to shape his pursuit of education, professional excellence, and social relevance.
<hr />
<h2>Personal Experiences and a Passion for Healing Through Books and Film</h2>
Dr. Owolabi’s lifelong commitment to bibliotherapy and cinematherapy is closely linked to early intellectual awakening and personal mentorship. He credits a secondary school teacher for introducing him to the transformative power of books at a critical stage of his life.
<blockquote>“There was a teacher—I still wish I could meet her—who introduced books to me. She knew I was strong in literature and wanted to snatch me from bad company.”</blockquote>
Sustained engagement with reading, he explained, profoundly reshaped his worldview.
<blockquote>“As I read, I became more excited. I saw my perspective on life changing. That was when I realised that books can transform people.”</blockquote>
This realisation, reinforced by Christian literature, informed his professional focus.
<blockquote>“Because I believe in the power of books, I decided to focus on this—that through books, through right movies, and documentaries, people’s lives can be transformed.”</blockquote>
This conviction underpins his work as an author, filmmaker, scholar, and mentor to young people.
<hr />
<h2>Redefining Success, Purpose, and Happiness at 50</h2>
At midlife, Dr. Owolabi articulated a mature and reflective understanding of success—one grounded in purpose rather than material accumulation.
<blockquote>“Life is a purpose-driven life. Without purpose, life is reduced.”</blockquote>
While acknowledging the importance of financial stability, he emphasised that wealth does not determine his values or relationships.
<blockquote>“Money is good, I make money—but it does not influence the way I relate with people.”</blockquote>
Instead, fulfilment is derived from long-term human impact.
<blockquote>“If we are involved with people and transform lives, we have rewards beyond this life.”</blockquote>
This perspective has become even clearer with age.
<blockquote>“At 50, I am much more committed to people and life—transforming lives instead of accumulating wealth.”</blockquote>
<hr />
<h2>The Optimistic Point: Hope Anchored in Transcendence</h2>
Reflecting on five decades of learning, faith, service, and resilience, Dr. Owolabi defined his Optimistic Point as a belief anchored beyond the present life.
<blockquote>“My optimistic point is the assurance of another life after this life.”</blockquote>
This conviction shapes his ethical consciousness and sense of accountability.
<blockquote>“Nothing done is ever forgotten. When I remember there is another life, I ask myself: if I am asked, ‘How did you live the first life?’ what will I say?”</blockquote>
It is this reflective question, he noted, that sustains his optimism and commitment to excellence.
<blockquote>“It prompts me to live a life worthy of emulation.”</blockquote>
<hr />
<h2>Conclusion</h2>
<img decoding="async" class="size-medium wp-image-4732 alignright" src="https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Dr-Sola-Owolabi-50th-Birthday-Party--300x300.png" alt="" width="300" height="300" srcset="https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Dr-Sola-Owolabi-50th-Birthday-Party--300x300.png 300w, https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Dr-Sola-Owolabi-50th-Birthday-Party--1024x1024.png 1024w, https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Dr-Sola-Owolabi-50th-Birthday-Party--150x150.png 150w, https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Dr-Sola-Owolabi-50th-Birthday-Party--768x768.png 768w, https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Dr-Sola-Owolabi-50th-Birthday-Party--585x585.png 585w, https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Dr-Sola-Owolabi-50th-Birthday-Party-.png 1080w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
At 50, Dr. Sola Emmanuel Owolabi exemplifies a model of scholarship and service in which faith-informed optimism, intellectual engagement, and social responsibility are meaningfully integrated. His life journey highlights the enduring power of books, reflective practice, and purposeful living in shaping individuals and contributing to societal transformation. Readers and viewers are invited to watch the full interview on the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@optimisticpoint1165">OptimisticPoint YouTube channel:</a>
On behalf of everyone at Optimistic Concept Services, we extend our warmest congratulations to Dr Sola Emmanuel Owolabi on his 50th birthday. We pray that God continues to bless and keep you, and that His face will shine upon you now and always. Thanks for all your contributions to humanity.
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			</item>
		<item>
		<title>Honouring a Librarian-Scholar at 40</title>
		<link>https://optimisticscholar.com/honouring-a-librarian-scholar-at-40/</link>
					<comments>https://optimisticscholar.com/honouring-a-librarian-scholar-at-40/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Optimistic Scholar]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sun, 13 Apr 2025 10:08:34 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Scholar Spotlight]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Success Stories]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[academic excellence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Academic Librarian]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Digital Literacy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dr. Adeoye Azeez Adebamgbola]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Education in Nigeria]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Library and Information Science]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Nigerian scholars]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://optimisticscholar.com/?p=4620</guid>

<description><![CDATA[Honouring a Scholar at 40: Celebrating the Impact and Journey of Dr. Adeoye Azeez Adebamgbola On April 11, 2025, the academic community in Nigeria&#8230;]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[Honouring a Scholar at 40: Celebrating the Impact and Journey of Dr. Adeoye Azeez Adebamgbola
On April 11, 2025, the academic community in Nigeria and beyond celebrates a distinguished scholar and professional — Dr. Adeoye Azeez Adebamgbola — as he marks his 40th birthday. This milestone provides an opportune moment to reflect on a career marked by academic excellence, professional innovation, and meaningful contributions to knowledge, education, and society.
<img decoding="async" class="size-medium wp-image-4622 alignleft" src="https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Dr-Azeez-Adeoye-200x300.jpg" alt="" width="200" height="300" srcset="https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Dr-Azeez-Adeoye-200x300.jpg 200w, https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Dr-Azeez-Adeoye-681x1024.jpg 681w, https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Dr-Azeez-Adeoye-768x1154.jpg 768w, https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Dr-Azeez-Adeoye-585x879.jpg 585w, https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Dr-Azeez-Adeoye.jpg 851w" sizes="(max-width: 200px) 100vw, 200px" />
A native of Oyo town in Oyo State, Dr. Adeoye’s educational trajectory reflects a commitment to intellectual growth and service. He began his academic journey at the Federal College of Education (Special), Oyo, and proceeded to the University of Ibadan, where he earned his PhD in 2024. Throughout this journey, his work has consistently demonstrated scholarly rigour and practical relevance.
Currently serving as a Senior Librarian at the Federal University of Health Sciences, Ila-Orangun (FUHSI), Dr. Adeoye has played a pivotal role in the development and institutionalisation of the university&#8217;s library system. As a founding member of the library team, he has overseen critical components of its establishment, including staff capacity development, orientation programmes for new students, research support services, and the implementation of national grant-funded projects.
In addition to his work at FUHSI, Dr. Adeoye holds a teaching appointment at Lead City University, where he lectures in areas such as library automation, ICT applications in library practice, academic writing, and soft skills development. His teaching philosophy emphasizes both technical competence and critical thinking, and he remains deeply engaged in mentoring undergraduate and postgraduate students, as well as academic staff.
Dr. Adeoye’s professional impact is further underscored by numerous recognitions and awards. He received a State Commendation during his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) year, was honoured by the Association for Information Science and Technology (ASIS&amp;T) for his global contributions, and has secured competitive research grants from the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund). Noteworthy among his projects is a digital literacy initiative designed to reduce cybercrime among secondary school students in Ila-Orangun, as well as an ethnobotanical research project focused on curating indigenous herbal knowledge for community health interventions.
His professional interests lie at the intersection of digital librarianship, scholarly communication, indigenous knowledge systems, and capacity building in research and soft skills. From his early engagement as a student librarian at the Institute of African Studies, University of Ibadan, to his leadership in library technology training at FUHSI, Dr. Adeoye has demonstrated a sustained commitment to enhancing knowledge infrastructures in Nigeria.
As Dr. Adeoye turns 40, his story offers a compelling example of how librarianship, scholarship, and digital innovation can converge to shape more inclusive, knowledge-driven societies. His trajectory is not only a personal achievement but also an inspiration to the next generation of African scholars and information professionals.
The academic world celebrates this milestone, confident that his next chapter will continue to expand the boundaries of knowledge, learning, and societal impact.
Happy Birthday, Dr. Adeoye Azeez Adebamgbola. Your legacy continues to illuminate the path for many.
— Published by Optimistic Scholar Blog | April 2025
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			</item>
		<item>
		<title>Dr. Ayodele Alonge: Leading the Digital Transformation of Libraries</title>
		<link>https://optimisticscholar.com/dr-ayodele-alonge-leading-the-digital-transformation-of-libraries/</link>
					<comments>https://optimisticscholar.com/dr-ayodele-alonge-leading-the-digital-transformation-of-libraries/#comments</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Optimistic Scholar]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 24 Mar 2025 21:37:39 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Academic Careers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Scholar Spotlight]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Success Stories]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[African knowledge hubs.]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[African libraries]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[AI in Libraries]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Digital transformation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dr Ayodele John Alonge]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Librarian of the Month]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[librarianship]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Library Innovation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Optimistic Scholar]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[social impact]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://optimisticscholar.com/?p=4569</guid>

<description><![CDATA[Dr. Ayodele Alonge: The Digital Librarian Transforming Africa’s Information Landscape When Ayodele Alonge first volunteered to organize books at his church as a teenager,&#8230;]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h4>Dr. Ayodele Alonge: The Digital Librarian Transforming Africa’s Information Landscape</h4>
When Ayodele Alonge first volunteered to organize books at his church as a teenager, few could have predicted that he would one day become one of Africa’s most influential voices in library science. Yet, decades later, his innovative works in digital transformation, publishing, archival management, and records management have earned him global recognition. His impact extends far beyond titles, but among his many accolades, he has been named Librarian of the Month by Librarian Spotlight Africa—an honor that only begins to capture the depth of his contributions.
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignleft wp-image-4571 " src="https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Librarian-Spotlight-Certificate-Dr.-Alonge-300x212.jpg" alt="" width="353" height="250" srcset="https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Librarian-Spotlight-Certificate-Dr.-Alonge-300x212.jpg 300w, https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Librarian-Spotlight-Certificate-Dr.-Alonge-1024x724.jpg 1024w, https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Librarian-Spotlight-Certificate-Dr.-Alonge-768x543.jpg 768w, https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Librarian-Spotlight-Certificate-Dr.-Alonge-1536x1086.jpg 1536w, https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Librarian-Spotlight-Certificate-Dr.-Alonge-1920x1357.jpg 1920w, https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Librarian-Spotlight-Certificate-Dr.-Alonge-1170x827.jpg 1170w, https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Librarian-Spotlight-Certificate-Dr.-Alonge-585x414.jpg 585w, https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Librarian-Spotlight-Certificate-Dr.-Alonge.jpg 2000w" sizes="(max-width: 353px) 100vw, 353px" />
<h4>From Church Shelves to Global Stages</h4>
&#8220;I never planned to be a librarian,&#8221; Dr. Alonge admitted during his acceptance interview. His journey into librarianship began with passion and a commitment to service. While still in secondary school, he volunteered as a youth librarian at ECWA church in Ibadan. &#8220;When good books were scarce, I volunteered to create and manage a youth library,&#8221; he recalled. &#8220;I set up a space on the church’s ground floor, gathered books and video resources, and built a collection for young readers like me. That’s what librarians do—we fill gaps.&#8221; 
 
His path has been anything but conventional
<ul>
<li>The Corporate Librarian: Dr. Alonge’s career began in the early 2000s as a library intern at ResearchersWorld, Lagos. With a master’s degree in publishing and copyright studies, he later secured a prestigious role at KPMG Nigeria as a librarian and social media coordinator. However, his passion for research led him to pursue a PhD at the University of Nairobi, Kenya, under the prestigious <a href="https://cartafrica.org/">CARTA Fellowship</a>, where he explored how young Africans engage in discussions about HIV/AIDS on social media.</li>
<li>The Innovative Educator Driven by a deep passion for teaching, Dr. Alonge is committed to transforming knowledge into practical, impactful learning experiences. His dynamic methods—ranging from hands-on workshops and role-playing exercises to interactive learning sessions—have profoundly influenced both his students and professional peers. Dr. Alonge describes education as:</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>&#8220;The measured and systematic process of guiding the human mind and soul to the best information, enabling effective performance of essential tasks, and fostering lifelong skills, experience, and satisfaction.&#8221; (International Day of Education 2022) <a style="font-family: Raleway, sans-serif; font-weight: bold; letter-spacing: 0px;" href="https://www.facebook.com/share/p/12JNsR9eW1Y/">Read more</a></blockquote>
From church shelves to global innovation, Dr. Alonge’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of librarianship.
<h3>Libraries as Innovation Hubs</h3>
Dr. Alonge challenges traditional perceptions of librarianship. “Librarians aren’t just bookkeepers—we’re the original data scientists,” he asserts. His work exemplifies this vision through impactful initiatives:
<ul>
<li>Optimistic Concept Services</li>
</ul>
Founded on April 27, 2005, in Lagos while still a university student, Dr. Alonge established Optimistic Concept Services to provide expert library consultancy and information services. For nearly two decades, he has been actively engaged in library and information services, hands-on training, and publishing consultancy.
<ul>
<li>Optimistic Scholar</li>
</ul>
An extension of his commitment to knowledge dissemination, Optimistic Scholar is an academic and professional development platform. It provides scholarship opportunities, career insights, and educational resources, supporting individuals in their academic and professional journeys. The website covers areas such as academic careers, fellowship programs, and grant opportunities, equipping users with the tools they need to succeed. Visit:<a href="http://www.optimisticscholar.com"> www.optimisticscholar.com</a> Dr. Alonge embodies a fusion of information dissemination and entrepreneurship, proving that libraries are more than repositories—they are engines of innovation.
<ul>
<li>Dancing Against Stigma</li>
</ul>
What began as a PhD research project has blossomed into a viral dance phenomenon, harnessing the power of rhythm and storytelling to educate youth on HIV prevention. Dr. Alonge’s initiative exemplifies how libraries and knowledge hubs can adopt unconventional methods to foster social change and contribute to public health through effective health communication. Watch the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YmnN0QLFBLo">video here</a>.
<h3>Africa’s Digital Library Revolution</h3>
In an acceptance interview conducted by Sylvester Ebhonu on Saturday, March 25, 2025, Dr. Alonge highlighted the critical challenges confronting African libraries in the digital age.
“Our Internet is too expensive and unreliable.”
&#8220;During my recent visit to Nigeria, for a month I spent 200,000  naira on data that vanished quickly. How can we build digital libraries under such conditions?&#8221; The high cost and instability of internet access remain major obstacles to digital transformation.
The Need for 21st-Century Skills in Library Schools 
 &#8220;We need to teach 21st-century skills. Librarians must master AI and data analytics and data science—now.&#8221; Without modern tech proficiency, librarians risk being left behind in an increasingly digital world.
The Visibility Crisis 
 &#8220;Blog! Tweet! Facebooking! Make TikToks! If we don’t tell our stories, who will?&#8221; Dr. A.J. Alonge urges librarians to embrace digital storytelling and content creation, ensuring that African library innovations gain global recognition. With bold ideas and tireless advocacy, Dr. Alonge is at the forefront of creating a smarter, more connected future for African libraries.
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/TBd6_BFI0XU">Watch the Full Interview</a>:<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class=" wp-image-4575 alignright" src="https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Librarian-Spotlight-Recog-Alonge-300x169.jpg" alt="" width="376" height="212" srcset="https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Librarian-Spotlight-Recog-Alonge-300x169.jpg 300w, https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Librarian-Spotlight-Recog-Alonge-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Librarian-Spotlight-Recog-Alonge-768x432.jpg 768w, https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Librarian-Spotlight-Recog-Alonge-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Librarian-Spotlight-Recog-Alonge-1170x663.jpg 1170w, https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Librarian-Spotlight-Recog-Alonge-585x329.jpg 585w, https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Librarian-Spotlight-Recog-Alonge.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 376px) 100vw, 376px" /> 

<pre>Dr. Ayodele John Alonge’s work is transforming librarianship, bridging digital innovation, storytelling, and social impact. His dedication to AI, digital literacy, and knowledge dissemination is shaping the future of African libraries. As he receives the Librarian of the Month award from Librarian Spotlight Africa, we celebrate his remarkable contributions. Well deserved!</pre>
Written by
<div><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/adinoyijulius/">Dr Julius A. Adinoyi</a></div>
<div dir="auto">Auburn University, Alabama, USA</div>
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		<title>Teaching Portfolio and Pedagogical Expertise Statement of Dr. Ayodele John Alonge</title>
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		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Optimistic Scholar]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 06 Nov 2024 09:06:21 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Academic Careers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Educator Spotlight]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Scholar Opinions]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Scholar Spotlight]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Success Stories]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Active Learning]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Archival Science]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ayodele John Alonge]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Digital Curation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ICT Integration in Education]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Information Science Education]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Library and Information Studies]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Pedagogical Expertise]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Student Mentorship]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Teaching Portfolio]]></category>
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<description><![CDATA[Teaching Portfolio and Statement of Pedagogical Expertise -Dr. Ayodele John Alonge Introduction Dr. Ayodele John Alonge is an accomplished scholar, educator, and information professional&#8230;]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h1>Teaching Portfolio and Statement of Pedagogical Expertise</h1>
<h2>-Dr. Ayodele John Alonge</h2>
<hr />
<h3>Introduction</h3>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-medium wp-image-4353 alignright" src="https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Ayodele-John-300x300.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="300" srcset="https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Ayodele-John-300x300.jpg 300w, https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Ayodele-John-150x150.jpg 150w, https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Ayodele-John-768x768.jpg 768w, https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Ayodele-John-585x585.jpg 585w, https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Ayodele-John.jpg 960w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />Dr. Ayodele John Alonge is an accomplished scholar, educator, and information professional with over 18 years of extensive experience across multiple disciplines, including communication, library science, publishing studies, and archival and records management. His academic journey and career have been characterized by a commitment to utilizing Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to enhance educational practices, bridge theoretical concepts with practical applications, and achieve organizational objectives.
Guided by his foundational philosophy, Dr. Alonge defines education in May 2019 as follows:
<blockquote>&#8220;Education is the measured and systematic process of leading the human mind and soul to the best information that is capable of leading to an effective performance of necessary tasks, thereby, creating lifelong skills, experience, or satisfaction.&#8221;</blockquote>
<div id="attachment_4354" style="width: 310px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-4354" class="size-medium wp-image-4354" src="https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Ayodele-John-Alonge-Edcuation-defination-300x300.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="300" srcset="https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Ayodele-John-Alonge-Edcuation-defination-300x300.jpg 300w, https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Ayodele-John-Alonge-Edcuation-defination-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Ayodele-John-Alonge-Edcuation-defination-150x150.jpg 150w, https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Ayodele-John-Alonge-Edcuation-defination-768x768.jpg 768w, https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Ayodele-John-Alonge-Edcuation-defination-585x585.jpg 585w, https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Ayodele-John-Alonge-Edcuation-defination.jpg 1080w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />Ayodele-John-Alonge-Edcuation-defination.</div>
This definition underpins his teaching philosophy and pedagogical methods, which emphasize engaging students in ways that foster lasting skills, build practical experience, and ultimately lead to a fulfilling and informed life.
Dr. Alonge lecturer in the Department of Library, Archival, and Information Studies at the University of Ibadan, Nigeria (on leave of absence). He is also a visiting scholar at Karatina University, Kenya, and a Digital Transformation Researcher at the Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences, Netherlands. His role at Karatina University includes serving as the Editor-in-Chief for the Interdisciplinary Journal of Contemporary Research in Information and Communication (IJCRIC) and convening the International Conference on AI and Sustainable Knowledge Systems (ICSKS 2025).
His contributions extend beyond academia to significant roles in professional and volunteer settings, where he spearheads the development of innovative library projects, particularly focusing on green library initiatives, and provides consultancy services on emerging technologies in the library and information science field.
<h3>Pedagogical Expertise</h3>
Dr. Alonge&#8217;s pedagogical expertise is deeply rooted in his diverse experiences and continuous professional development. He is known for his ability to foster active, collaborative, and experiential learning environments. His teaching philosophy involves the integration of ICT and innovative pedagogical techniques to enhance student learning outcomes and ensure that students are prepared to meet the demands of the evolving information landscape.
<h4><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-medium wp-image-4351 aligncenter" src="https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Ayo-Alonge-teaching-2-300x165.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="165" srcset="https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Ayo-Alonge-teaching-2-300x165.jpg 300w, https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Ayo-Alonge-teaching-2-1024x563.jpg 1024w, https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Ayo-Alonge-teaching-2-768x422.jpg 768w, https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Ayo-Alonge-teaching-2-1170x643.jpg 1170w, https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Ayo-Alonge-teaching-2-585x322.jpg 585w, https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Ayo-Alonge-teaching-2.jpg 1235w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />Active and Collaborative Learning</h4>
Dr. Alonge employs a variety of active and collaborative learning strategies, including hands-on activities, group work, and practical assignments that allow students to engage deeply with course content. His emphasis on experiential learning ensures that students can apply theoretical knowledge in real-world contexts, enhancing their skills and preparing them for professional practice.
<h4>Integration of ICT in Education</h4>
With over 18 years of experience in ICT, Dr. Alonge integrates technology into all aspects of his teaching and research activities. He has successfully leveraged digital tools to enhance both learning and information management, and he actively conducts ICT training sessions for academic staff and students to foster digital literacy and improve technology-enhanced learning practices.
<h3>Teaching Experience</h3>
Current Positions:
<ul>
<li>Lecturer &amp; Researcher, University of Ibadan, Nigeria (On Leave of Absence):
<ul>
<li>Pedagogical Expertise: Utilizes diverse teaching methods, including ICT integration, to foster engaging, active, and collaborative learning environments.</li>
<li>Teaching and Assessment: Engages students with effective teaching strategies for both theoretical and practical contexts, evaluates their performance, and monitors their academic growth and progress.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Visiting Scholar, Karatina University, Kenya:
<ul>
<li>Courses Taught: INS 815 (C) &#8211; Introduction to Ethics &amp; Policy, and Information Literacy.</li>
<li>Conference Leadership: Leads the International Conference on AI and Sustainable Knowledge Systems (ICSKS 2025).</li>
<li>Editorial Role: Editor-in-Chief for IJCRIC.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Digital Transformation Researcher, Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences, Netherlands:
<ul>
<li>Project Management: Oversees service design projects and digital transformation research, applying design thinking methodologies.</li>
<li>Storytelling and Communication: Utilizes storytelling techniques to convey insights and enhance engagement among stakeholders.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
Past Positions:
<ul>
<li>Librarian (Visiting Scholar), University of Groningen, Netherlands (2023-2024):
<ul>
<li>Managed special collections, focusing on acquisition, cataloging, preservation, and digitization.</li>
<li>Provided research support and facilitated access to special collections for scholars.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Emerging Technology Librarian, University of Ibadan, Nigeria (2013-2018):
<ul>
<li>Enhanced library services and information access through the integration of emerging technologies.</li>
<li>Conducted ICT training sessions for academic staff and students, promoting digital literacy.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>National Communication Analyst, Nigerian Library Association (2017-2021):
<ul>
<li>Enhanced the communication mission through effective digital communication strategies.</li>
<li>Developed and managed social media strategies to support organizational growth and outreach.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
Courses Taught:
Undergraduate Courses:
<ul>
<li>LIS 101: Introduction to Library, Archives, and Information Studies</li>
<li>LIS 103: Introduction to Information Technology</li>
<li>LIS 411: Evaluation of Library, Archives, and Information Services</li>
<li>LIS 412: Entrepreneurship in Library, Archival, and Information Studies</li>
<li>UCC 100: Information Literacy</li>
<li>MAC 323: Photojournalism</li>
<li>MAC 233: Computer Applications for Media</li>
<li>GST 121: Use of Library, Study Skills &amp; ICT</li>
</ul>
Postgraduate Courses:
<ul>
<li>LIS 712: Information Technology in Library Information Centres</li>
<li>ARM 704: Digital Curation for Information Professionals</li>
<li>ARM 713: Automation in Archives and Records Management</li>
<li>MPC 707: Computer Application in Publishing</li>
<li>MPC 712: Issues in Electronic Publishing</li>
<li>CLA 710: Digital Journalism</li>
<li>OIM 704: Emerging Information Technology</li>
<li>LAC 716: Current Trends in Communication Technology</li>
<li>OIM 903: Information Technology Management Cases</li>
<li>CIPR Diploma: Digital Communication</li>
</ul>
<h3>Supervision and Mentorship</h3>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-medium wp-image-4352 alignright" src="https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Ayo-Alonge-teaching-300x200.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="200" srcset="https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Ayo-Alonge-teaching-300x200.jpg 300w, https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Ayo-Alonge-teaching-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Ayo-Alonge-teaching-768x512.jpg 768w, https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Ayo-Alonge-teaching-1170x780.jpg 1170w, https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Ayo-Alonge-teaching-585x390.jpg 585w, https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Ayo-Alonge-teaching-263x175.jpg 263w, https://optimisticscholar.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Ayo-Alonge-teaching.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
Dr. Alonge has successfully supervised numerous undergraduate and postgraduate research projects, demonstrating his ability to mentor and guide students in their academic journeys. His supervision portfolio includes:
<ul>
<li>22 Undergraduate Projects Supervised</li>
<li>15 Master’s Projects Supervised</li>
<li>3 Ongoing Ph.D. Projects (as of May 2024)</li>
</ul>
<h3>Research Interests and Contributions</h3>
Dr. Alonge is actively involved in translating research into practical applications, particularly in areas of digital records curation, archival management, and information ethics. His research interests include:
<ul>
<li>Digital Records Curation and Preservation: As an expert in archival science, Dr. Alonge’s work emphasizes the importance of integrating modern technologies into archival practices to enhance accessibility, management, and preservation.</li>
<li>Health Information and Communication: He has led several health communication research projects, including studies funded by the Consortium for Advanced Research Training in Africa (CARTA), focusing on HIV awareness through Nollywood movies and other innovative communication channels.</li>
<li>Green Library Initiatives: In his role as Project Director of the Afrelib Green Library Project, Dr. Alonge leads a team dedicated to implementing sustainable library practices and advancing green library standards.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Contributions to Professional Development and Service</h3>
<ul>
<li>Conference Leadership: Dr. Alonge has played a crucial role in organizing several high-profile conferences, such as the International Conference on AI and Sustainable Knowledge Systems (ICSKS 2025).</li>
<li>Special Collections Management: During his tenure as a visiting scholar at the University of Groningen, Dr. Alonge curated special collections, focusing on rare materials, their acquisition, cataloging, preservation, and accessibility.</li>
<li>Social Media and Digital Communication: Dr. Alonge has developed digital communication strategies for various organizations, enhancing public engagement and promoting library services.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Professional Training and Certifications</h3>
<ul>
<li>Digital Records Curation Programme (DRCP), University of Botswana (2019)</li>
<li>Data Science for Information Professionals Summer School, Western University, Canada (2024)</li>
<li>Carnegie CPD Programme, University of Pretoria (2015)</li>
</ul>
Dr. Alonge’s dedication to continuous professional development is reflected in his participation in advanced training programs and his role in organizing professional development workshops for academic and library staff.
<h3>Administrative Experience and Community Engagement</h3>
<ul>
<li>Membership Coordinator, Gideons International (Netherlands): Coordinates membership activities and ensures engagement.</li>
<li>Chair, Computer Committee, Faculty of Education, University of Ibadan (2021-2022): Oversaw ICT integration and emergency remote learning initiatives.</li>
<li>Business Manager, Nigerian Journal of Library and Information Science: Manages editorial activities to maintain quality scholarly output.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Publications and Research Outputs</h3>
For a comprehensive list of Dr. Alonge’s publications, including chapters in books, articles in refereed conference proceedings, and journal articles, please visit <a href="http://tinyurl.com/AlongePublications" target="_new" rel="noopener">Publication List</a>.
<h3>Conclusion</h3>
Dr. Ayodele John Alonge is a distinguished educator, researcher, and professional with a deep commitment to fostering learning environments that are collaborative, technologically integrated, and focused on student success. His philosophy of education, which he defines as the structured process of guiding the mind and soul to transformative information that cultivates lifelong skills and fulfillment, underpins his approach to teaching and mentorship. His expertise in library science, archival management, and digital transformation, combined with his extensive experience in teaching, mentorship, and project leadership, position him as a leading figure in the field of information science. Dr. Alonge’s work continues to make significant contributions to the advancement of library and archival practices, the integration of ICT in education, and the development of sustainable information management systems
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