COMUI Welcomes MBBS/BDS Class Of 2K25 To Clinical School

The White Coat Ceremony for the MBBS/BDS Class of 2K25 was held on Thursday, May 29, 2025, at the Paul Hendricks Lecture Theatre, College of Medicine, University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan. The event, slated for 10AM, began a few minutes past the hour. The ceremony marked the official transition of the students from preclinical to clinical training. It was graced by several distinguished professors and doctors from the College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, and UCH, Ibadan.

Seated at the high table were eminent personalities in the medical field: Emeritus Professor of Paediatrics and current President of ICOMAA Worldwide, Professor Samuel Omokhodion; the Chief Medical Director of UCH, Professor Jesse Abiodun Otegbayo, represented by Professor Olusola Olaoye; and the Provost of the College of Medicine, Professor Temidayo Ogundiran, represented by the Dean of the Faculty of Clinical Sciences, Professor Tiwo Lawal.

Also present were Professor Augustine Adeolu, Director of the College of Medicine Education Unit; Professor Oyeronke Odunola, Dean of the Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences;  Professor M.T. Dairo, Dean of the Faculty of Public Health, ably represented by Professor Adebayo; Professor Kolude, Dean of the Faculty of Dentistry; Professor F.A. Fehintola, Dean of the Faculty of Basic Clinical Sciences; along with distinguished sub-deans, faculty officers, lecturers, and student leaders.

The programme commenced with the recitation of Nigeria's national anthem, followed by the University of Ibadan anthem and then the COMUI anthem. This was followed by a speech from the CMD's representative, Professor Olaoye, who highlighted the symbolism of the white coat as a representation of trust and integrity. "It signifies the special bond between the healer and patients," she said. She encouraged the new clinical students to embrace the values of the medical profession, such as humility, diligence, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. She also admonished them to always remember the importance of human connection.

Professor Adeolu emphasized that entering clinical school is a lifelong dedication of service to mankind. Professor Adebayo delivered an inspiring message centered on the "Three Gs": Goal, Goal-getter and God.

The ceremonial donning of the white coats was performed by Professor Lawal, who reminded the students that the colour white represents purity in the hospital. "This profession goes beyond brilliance and intelligence. Conduct yourselves as a colleague of the Provost", he added.

As the students were cloaked by their lecturers, the significance of the moment resonated deeply.

Professor Samuel Omokhodion also delivered a keynote address, offering words of wisdom and encouragement. The UIMSA President, Mr. Joshua Inioluwa, addressed the class, stating, “The reward of good work is more work.” The UADS President, Kehinde Omotoso, represented by his Vice President, Mr. Patrick Okelue, also extended warm remarks.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks from Mr. Olayemi and the recitation of the COMUI's anthem. A group photograph of the students and their lecturers followed, marking the close of the ceremony.

After the event, Dentatics Press interviewed some members of the MBBS/BDS 2k25 class to find out their thoughts on the ceremony and what they look forward to as they begin their clinical training.

Interviewer: How does the White Coat Ceremony make you feel and what do you look forward to as part of the new clinical intake?

Respondent: I feel very excited, and I feel closer to achieving my dreams. I'm so delighted, and it feels like there are many things to learn from—many things in the future to gain a lot from. I look forward to the trials, the experience, and everything. I hope it will be a very pleasurable and delightful one.

- Ogunjimi Precious

Interviewer: How do you plan to cope with the stress of Clinical School? 

Respondent: One thing I did today was screenshot all the messages and posts from people who reached out to me. On days when I feel down or overwhelmed, I'll revisit those messages. Keeping God first and trusting Him every step of the way is crucial. Also, taking things one day at a time helps.

- Jaiyeola Christianah

Interviewer: What was your favorite part of the White coat ceremony?

Respondent: When the lecturers cloaked us and the Oath Taking. Those two events made my day.

- Dolapo Akinwale

Interviewer: How did you feel wearing the ward coat for the very first time?

Respondent: Well, for me, when I wore the ward coat, I didn’t immediately feel anything—at least not emotionally. But I think it’s because becoming a good doctor has always been deeply important to me.  

Wearing the white coat today reminded me of how much responsibility comes with this path. It made me reflect on what it means to be an alumnus of the College of Medicine, University of Ibadan. There are such high standards set by those who came before me, and I must live up to them.

- Akinrinola Akinfolabi 

Interviewer: How do you feel about the White Coat Ceremony, and what do you look forward to in Clinical school?

Respondent: Well, I'm happy. At least, it's like a milestone—just like my matriculation—so this is another milestone before I now move to a new phase of life. Regarding what I look forward to, nothing much really. It's just to ensure I don't fail, I guess. I just don't want to fail. 

- Anonymous

For the MBBS/BDS class of 2k25, the white coat ceremony now symbolizes not just a new phase, but a commitment to compassion, excellence, and service in the field of healthcare. 

Abiona Michelle

Oluwadamilola Joy

Jesse Bina