The Acting Vice-Chancellor, University of Ibadan, Prof. Adebola Babatunde Ekanola has indicated the readiness of the University of Ibadan to collaborate with the World Bank in its “Out-of-School Project” to bolster the institution’s efforts in promoting literacy.
The Acting VC disclosed this when he received a World Bank education expert, Dr. Olatunde Adekola on a courtesy visit to him in his office on Tuesday, 04 May, 2021.
Prof. Ekanola emphasised the commitment of the University to promote literacy in teaching and learning.
The Acting VC also drew the attention of the education expert to the exceptional efforts made by the management, staff and students towards the accomplishment of the current global ranking of the University.
He specially thanked World Bank for embarking on “Out-of-School Project”, designed to enroll more children in school and to promote the interest of education in the hearts of those who are currently in school, saying that the Bank has been of great help to the University and the society, in general.
In line with the effort of the World Bank to reposition universities as service providers, Prof. Ekanola said UI will be willing to collaborate with the World Bank in achieving and sustaining the goal.
Earlier in his address, the Senior Education Specialist, World Bank, Dr. Olatunde Adekola said the priority of World Bank is the “Out-of-School Project”.
According to him, “this will ensure that children, especially those in villages get educated which will include establishing schools in villages, and ensuring that the present school children do not stop going to school.”
The international education expert noted that the purpose of visiting University of Ibadan is to support teaching and research through collaboration.
“The World Bank now thinks of how to position the University system beyond providing funds. Therefore, World Bank sees Universities as service providers that should not be seeking funds but should be the one providing funds, as other parastatals that do not depend fully on the government.”
Accompanying Dr. Adekola on the visit were the Director, Institute of Education, Prof. Olugbenga Adewale and other staff of the Institute of Education: Prof. Folajogun Falaye, Prof. Adams Onuka, Prof. Modupe Osokoya, Prof. Adenike Emeke, Prof. Monica Odinko, Dr. Abijo Ayobami, Dr. Serifat Akorede, Dr. Felix Ibode, Mrs. Adejoke Akinpelu and Mrs. Chioma Ekemezie.
Present at the occasion were the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Kayode Adebowale, mni; Registrar, Mrs. Olubunmi O. Faluyi; University Librarian, Dr. Helen Komolafe-Opadeji; Dean, Students Affairs, Prof. ‘Keye Abiona; Deputy Registrar, Vice-Chancellor’s Office, Mr. Oluwole Dada; Director, University Advancement Centre, Mr. Adebowale Adeosun; Director, Directorate of Public Communication, Mr. Olatunji Oladejo ably represented by Mr. Olukunle Oladipo.
