My commitment to a community of inclusion, belonging, and respect in which scholars with diverse

perspectives, abilities, and experiences can learn and collaborate productively and positively has been
demonstrated in my past experiences. Growing up, respect and tolerance were inculcated and team
spirit was emphasized in a community of people with diverse differences.

This upbringing enabled me to cultivate the attitude of respect for others, open mindedness and
willingness to compromise, and knowledge of how to work together with others irrespective of our
differences.

As an undergraduate, I witnessed how difficult it was for me and other students from low income
backgrounds to fit into the system. But, I am committed to making a difference in ensuring that
everyone is given opportunities to excel in our scholarly activities. I am determined to ensure that all
boundaries that limit our potentials are removed, while we encourage one another to collaborate and to
succeed together.

My past experiences have been as a Librarian in the university and the polytechnics. I have mentored
over 100 students from different backgrounds, ethnicity, religion, gender, age etc. In my previous post
as the Acting Rector and CEO of the National Institute of Construction Technology and Management, I
worked closely with the admissions office toward increasing diversity in our student population.
Scholarships were also introduced to encourage enrollment of students from poor backgrounds. Having
an inclusive will turn our school to miniaturized society and ensure a better and real life learning
outcome.

In addition, I have engaged in few outreach programs as a member of the community. I volunteered in
the mass literacy program and worked with the elderly to teach them communication skills.

Currently, I am working on a project designed to document the history and traditions of selected
indigenous people in Nigeria. Majority of my respondents are practitioners of traditional religion, who
do not share same religion with me. But we work harmoniously to achieve our set goal.

These are some of my past and current experiences. As I have already noted above, I think they align
well with my commitment to a community of inclusion, belonging, and respect in which scholars with
diverse perspectives, abilities, and experiences can learn and collaborate productively and positively.