By: Gbayesola Samuel

The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Professor Kayode Adebowale, has described alumni as vital instruments of progress in universities worldwide.

Professor Adebowale made this remark at the commissioning ceremony of several projects sponsored by the alumni body at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine.

Professor Adebowale emphasized that alumni and benefactors play a critical role in the growth of any university.

The Vice-Chancellor noted that harnessing alumni networks is essential for resource mobilization, which, according to him, promotes institutional development.

Professor Adebowale further stressed that the management of the University of Ibadan must develop strong resource mobilization skills, while asserting that alumni support forms the bedrock of the university’s financial autonomy.

“Establishing and nurturing relationships with alumni communities is key to their sustained involvement,” Professor Adebowale said.

The Vice-Chancellor appreciated the alumni for their commitment to giving back to their alma mater, while commending the Dean of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine for mobilizing resources for the projects.

The commissioned projects include an ultra-modern Veterinary Digital X-Ray Machine, furnishing of the Parasitology Laboratory, provision of a borehole for the Veterinary Anatomy Laboratory, as well as the refurbishment and upgrade of the Veterinary Pathology Building.

Reacting, the Dean of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Professor Olufunke Ola-Davies, explained that the projects were accomplished through the generosity of a group of alumni who, according to her, requested anonymity.

Professor Olufunke described the alumni as the backbone of the faculty’s advancement.