Strategic Alumni Engagement Key to Sustaining Public Universities, Says UI DVC

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Administration of the University of Ibadan, Professor Peter O. Olapegba, emphasized the importance of strategic alumni engagement as a vital mechanism for sustaining public universities amidst funding challenges.

Speaking on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kayode O. Adebowale, he highlighted the need for universities to actively involve their alumni in supporting institutional growth.

Professor Olapegba noted that with the proliferation of universities nationwide, federal funding can no longer fully sustain public institutions. He stressed that a global trend in higher education is the cultivation of a strong alumni base that takes ownership of the university through benefactions, scholarships, prizes, and other forms of goodwill.

The University of Ibadan has embraced this model through its Office of Alumni Relations, which coordinates alumni engagement and maintains a robust database of graduates from inception. He commended the Department of Geology alumni for their consistency and commitment, noting that their support has significantly enhanced the department’s facilities.

The Chairman of the alumni homecoming event and 12th Vice-Chancellor of the University, Professor Abel Idowu Olayinka, revealed that most of the department’s physical facilities and equipment, including the country’s best microscope laboratory, were funded by alumni contributions. Alumni have also sponsored students for training programs and conferences to provide professional exposure.

Professor Olayinka underscored that the homecoming event served as a platform for alumni to reconnect, interact socially, and deliberate on strategic ways to further support the department. Attendees included veteran and retired geologists, private practitioners, and academics from UI and other institutions, all united in reinforcing the department’s growth and sustainability.

The engagement underscores the critical role of alumni in bridging funding gaps and promoting institutional excellence in public universities.