The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan (UI), Prof. Kayode Adebowale, has urged alumni to increase their support and partnership in sustaining Nigerian universities amidst dwindling government funding. Represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Peter Olapegba, he emphasized the urgent need for universities to explore innovative funding alternatives.
This appeal was made during the inaugural Sultan Bello Hall Alumni Lecture and Award Program themed “Recognition Day 2024” at Trenchard Hall, UI. Organized by Dr. Oyediran Oyebola, Warden of Sultan Bello Hall, the event celebrated distinguished alumni and highlighted the critical role they play in driving institutional growth.
Alumni Ownership: A Global Best Practice
Prof. Adebowale pointed out that universities can no longer rely on full funding from federal and state governments, leaving them to seek independent solutions. He described alumni ownership as a proven global practice for sustainable funding.
“We are increasingly realizing that federal and state governments are unwilling to take full responsibility for funding universities. Universities must either fold their arms or think creatively. Alumni ownership is one of the veritable ways to ensure sustainability,” he said.
Dr. Oyebola echoed this sentiment, stating:
“Alumni are strong pillars of sustainable development. This event allows us to honor their invaluable contributions, which have been critical to our progress.”
Honoring Distinguished Alumni
Several alumni were recognized for their achievements and contributions, including:
– Mr. Julius Oke
– Mr. Adeleye Falade
– Prof. Abel Idowu Olayinka, former UI Vice-Chancellor
– Prof. Charles Aworh
– Mr. Emmanuel Edah
– Mr. Femi Babalola
Prof. Olayinka expressed gratitude for the recognition and reaffirmed his commitment to supporting Sultan Bello Hall.
Keynote Lecture: Building a Foundation for Success
Delivering 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, inspired students to embrace hard work, discipline, and resilience.
He highlighted the importance of networking, innovation, and a solution-driven mindset, stating:
“Opportunities exist in every venture. Success comes from seeing and seizing them while building meaningful connections.”
To address immediate challenges, Falade announced a donation of 50 bunk beds to Sultan Bello Hall on behalf of his twin brother.
Dignitaries in Attendance
The event also featured several notable personalities, including:
– Prof. ‘Keye Abiona, Dean of Students
– Prof. Ayodeji Omole, Pro-Chancellor of Ladoke Akintola University of Technology
– Alhaji Ganiyu Dada Bello
– Mr. Ayodeji Adewumi
The Sultan Bello Hall Alumni Lecture and Award Program served as a reminder of the transformative power of alumni involvement in ensuring the sustainability of Nigerian tertiary institutions.
