UI VC Advocates for Stronger University-Community Relationships to Ensure Sustainability
The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Professor Kayode O. Adebowale, emphasizes the necessity for federal universities in Nigeria to establish stronger ties with alumni, friends, benefactors, and philanthropists to address financial constraints.
Chris Oyeoku Okafor 
The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan (UI), Professor Kayode O. Adebowale, stresses the importance of fostering robust connections with alumni, friends, benefactors, and philanthropists to sustain federal universities in Nigeria. With limited government funding, Prof. Adebowale emphasizes the need for external support to address the financial challenges facing higher education institutions.
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During a ceremony where monetary support was presented to four deserving students, including two from UI and two from Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Prof. Adebowale expressed gratitude to the donors for their generosity. He highlighted the significant impact such contributions have on students who struggle financially to meet their educational expenses.
The recipients, Mr. Samuel T. Adesina and Miss Oyenike A. Akinsanmi from UI, along with Mr. Olamide M. Sanusi and Miss Fisayo D. Oladiran from OAU, were commended for their dedication to their studies despite financial constraints. Prof. Adebowale urged them to utilize the funds responsibly to further their education.
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The donation was made by Club Twelve88, Abuja, represented by Rear Admiral Amos Gbadejo Adedeji (Rtd), the club's president. Formed by 12 friends of Oyo State origin residing in Abuja in 1988, the club aims to support indigent students and other members of society. Rear Admiral Adedeji shared the club's commitment to philanthropy, citing previous contributions to communities in Oyo and Osun States, including the provision of boreholes.
In a heartfelt gesture, Rear Admiral Adedeji announced plans to establish an annual donation to UI's Department of Computer Science in memory of his late wife, Mrs. Iyabo Monsurat Adedeji, an alumna of the university's Computer Science program. As an alumnus himself, having studied Peace and Strategic Studies at UI, Rear Admiral Adedeji underscores the importance of giving back to his alma mater.
The event was attended by Chief Tunde Faremi, a club member, and Emeritus Professor Timothy Olayiwola Egunjobi, formerly of UI's Department of Urban and Regional Planning. Their presence signifies the enduring commitment of alumni and friends to support educational initiatives and enhance the academic experience for students.
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In conclusion, the ceremony exemplifies the vital role of partnerships between universities and their stakeholders in ensuring the sustainability and growth of higher education institutions. Prof. Adebowale's advocacy for stronger university-community relationships resonates with the broader goal of fostering educational excellence and empowering future generations.
