UI And Globacom To Strengthen Partnership In Digital Transformation, Innovation

The Vice-Chancellor, University of Ibadan, Professor Kayode O. Adebowale, has reiterated that the university is open to mutually beneficial partnerships in digital transformation, innovation and sustainable benefits for its students, staff and the institution as a whole.

He made this statement while receiving a delegation from Globacom, led by its Director/Team Lead, Enterprise Business, Mr. Adeniyi Odedeyi, during a courtesy visit to explore opportunities for strengthening the relationship with the university.

Professor Adebowale acknowledged the longstanding relationship between the University and Globacom, particularly the interest of the company's Chairman, Dr. Mike Adenuga, in supporting the institution.

He commended Globacom for its contributions to Nigeria's development, describing it as a wholly indigenous company that has contributed significantly to the growth of telecommunications in the country.

Professor Adebowale stated that the Globacom team should engage the Office of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research, Innovation and Strategic Partnerships (RISP) towards developing a Memorandum of Understanding that would provide a framework for collaboration.

He identified ICT infrastructure, connectivity, innovation, scholarships, capacity building and other student-focused initiatives as possible areas of partnership.

The Vice-Chancellor said the University has commenced the phased development of its ICT infrastructure and encouraged Globacom to assess what was already available and identify areas where the company could complement the efforts of the University.

He also proposed the establishment of an innovation hub through Globacom's Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives, noting that such a facility would benefit the University and provide an opportunity for the company to support innovation on campus.

Professor Adebowale stressed the importance of establishing structures that would ensure continuity of the proposed partnership beyond his tenure.

The Director, Enterprise Sales Department, Globacom Nigeria Limited, Mr. Adeniyi Odedeyi, said the visit was aimed at strengthening the relationship between Globacom and the University, while conveying warm felicitations from Dr. Mike Adenuga.

He explained that the Chairman's strong bond with the University and his involvement in various Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives is unflinching.

Mr. Odedeyi disclosed that Globacom's Enterprise Business division provides solutions in connectivity, digital transformation and learning management systems that could support higher institutions.

He expressed the company's interest in establishing a mutually beneficial partnership with the University, including initiatives that could connect students, academic and non-academic staff through affordable communication services.

The Globacom representative also stated that the company was exploring the provision of dedicated SIM cards and affordable communication packages for members of the University community, similar to arrangements with some other Nigerian universities.

He expressed appreciation to the Vice-Chancellor for making time to receive the team, noting that Globacom was ready to commence a new phase of collaboration with the University.

Among the visiting team were Mrs. Modupe Olubanjo, Director, Globacom Marketing Communication; Mr. Adewale Adiatu, Senior Manager, Globacom Enterprise; Mr. Gabriel Makinde, Senior Manager, Globacom Enterprise; and Mr. Fatai Olajide, Senior Manager, Globacom Technical.