UI VC advocates alumni support to sustain varsities
The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Prof. Kayode Adebowale, has urged for increased collaboration and support in the development of higher education institutions in Nigeria to ensure their long-term sustainability.
Represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Peter Olapegba, he highlighted the diminishing role of state and federal governments in funding universities, leaving these institutions to find alternative sources of revenue.
This statement was made during the inaugural Sultan Bello Hall Alumni Lecture and Award ceremony, titled “Recognition Day 2024,” which took place at the university’s Trenchard Hall.
The event, hosted by Dr. Oyediran Oyebola, the Warden of Sultan Bello Hall, honored outstanding alumni and prominent individuals.
Adebowale emphasized that alumni involvement in university management is a global best practice and provides a sustainable approach to addressing the funding challenges faced by Nigerian universities.
“As a university, we are increasingly aware of the issue, as federal and state governments are no longer willing to fully fund universities,” he remarked.
“Securing government funding for capital projects is becoming more difficult. Universities must either remain inactive or adopt innovative strategies for self-sustainability. One effective solution is alumni involvement, which is a widely recognized practice globally.”
The event recognized several distinguished alumni, such as Mr. Julius Oke, Mr. Adeleye Falade, Prof. Abel Idowu Olayinka, Prof. Charles Aworh, Mr. Emmanuel Edah, Mr. Femi Babalola, among others.
Prof. Olayinka, a former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, expressed his appreciation for the recognition and committed to continued support for the development of Sultan Bello Hall.
In the keynote lecture titled “Career Progression from School to Town: Life in University as a Foundation for Success,” Mr. Adegbite Falade, CEO of Aradel Holdings Plc, encouraged students to adopt values of hard work, discipline, focus, and resilience.
He also highlighted the significance of networking, maintaining a solution-oriented mindset, and recognizing opportunities in all endeavors.
On behalf of his twin brother, Falade announced a donation of 50 bunk beds to help address immediate challenges faced by students of Sultan Bello Hall.
Oyebola, the Warden of Sultan Bello Hall, recognized the crucial role alumni play in supporting the growth of the institution.
“Alumni are key pillars for the long-term development of any institution. This event serves as an opportunity to acknowledge those who have contributed to the management of Sultan Bello Hall. External support has been essential to our progress,” he stated.
The event was also graced by notable dignitaries, including the Dean of Students, Prof. ‘Keye Abiona; Pro-Chancellor of Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Prof. Ayodeji Omole; Alhaji Ganiyu Dada Bello; and Mr. Ayodeji Adewumi.