The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Professor Kayode O. Adebowale, mni, FAS, has charged federal universities to deepen their relationships with alumni, friends, and philanthropists, saying benefactions from these stakeholders would go a long way to mitigate the funding challenges of the universities.
He made this statement at the commissioning of a 13-car parking lot donated by the Elerumoke family to the Institute of Education, University of Ibadan.
Professor Adebowale noted that one of the challenges facing federal universities is funding, and he stressed the need for the universities to develop sustainable funding regimes.
According to the Vice-Chancellor, the government is unable to fully meet the needs of the 51 federal universities because of the other demands on the federal revenue added to which the federal universities are not allowed to charge tuition fees.
Professor Adebowale expressed deep appreciation to Engr. Lasisi Adekunle Rafiu, FNSE, FNIHTE for the donation of the car park to the University of Ibadan.
He commended the Director of the Institute of Education, Professor J. A. Adegbile for his dedication and commitment towards the advancement of the Institute.
The Vice-Chancellor appreciated all members of staff of the Institute, including the retired staff, for their team spirit, cooperation, and love, which had shaped the Institute.
He especially appreciated Emeritus Professor P. A. I. Obanya and former Directors of the Institute of Education for their activeness and continued positive influence on the Institute and the University at large.
He assured the Institute that the University Management would also do whatever is within its available resources to further meet the other needs of the Institute.
The Director of the Institute of Education, Professor J. A. Adegbile said he approached Engr. Lasisi Adekunle Rafiu, who graciously donated and thoroughly supervised the building of the car park in honour of his late parents, Chief Lasisi Olatunji Ajani Elerumoke, and Alhaja Asiyawu Taiwo Ajike Elerumoke.
The Donor, Engr. Lasisi Adekunle Rafiu was represented by his wife, Alhaja Titilayo Azeez, Engr. Lawal Sulaimon Olalekan, FNSE, and other members of the Elerumoke family at the handing-over ceremony.
The representative of the Registrar and Deputy Registrar, Office of the Vice-Chancellor, Mr. Oluwole O. Dada presented a letter of appreciation to the Elerumoke family on behalf of the University.
Engr. Lawal Sulaimon on behalf of the Elerumoke family, appreciated the University Management for the opportunity to immortalise their parents.
