By: IndyPress News Desk
The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Professor Kayode O. Adebowale, mni, FAS, fspsp, has reiterated that alumni support is imperative for sustainable development in Nigerian federal universities.
He made this statement at the naming and commissioning of a Veterinary Medicine Central Laboratory in memory of the Managing Director of ADSA Veterinary Services Konsult Nig. Ltd, Alhaji Chief (Dr.) Suraj Adesina, who donated the laboratory to the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine of the University.
According to the VC, the involvement of the alumni in the funding of federal universities has become expedient owing to the rising overhead costs of the universities, which have made government subvention inadequate.
He noted that this was why the University of Ibadan deepens relationships with its alumni through the Alumni Relations Office.
He reiterated that benefactions from these stakeholders help to mitigate some of the funding challenges faced by the universities.
Professor Adebowale restated that the University of Ibadan was transiting into a postgraduate institution where more cutting-edge research will be carried out to sustain the nation, thus, it needs facilities and support to accomplish this vision.
He recalled that the University established a central laboratory many years ago so as not to duplicate equipment in the departments or the related faculties and to make it easier for the researchers all over the University to collaborate.
The Vice-Chancellor expressed deep appreciation to the family of Late Dr Suraj Adesina for the completion of the project despite his demise, thereby immortalising his legacy to motivate future generations of veterinary professionals and animal enthusiasts.
He stated that the Late Dr Adesina’s outstanding partnerships in veterinary drug production and international commerce, coupled with his significant contributions to veterinary and public health development in Nigeria, have earned him recognition locally and internationally.
He commended the Dean, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, for her dedication and commitment towards the advancement of the faculty.
The Dean, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Professor Olufunke Ola-Davies, said the veterinary medicine research laboratory was one of her visions, adding that the project was executed by Late Dr. Suraj Adesina, her classmate, friend, and member of the class of 1992.
She expressed regrets that he was unable to complete the project before his demise in August 2024.
She explained that Dr. Suraj Adesina was dedicated to providing access to drugs and biologicals for veterinary professionals, stating that the Central Veterinary Laboratory was borne out of his desire to enable and make provisions for improved access to research facilities for the faculty’s researches and the University at large in the pursuit of excellence which the University is known for.
Professor Ola-Davies disclosed that this was what led to the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding which birthed the central research laboratory for the twin goals of molecular biology and drug development which will further elevate the research and service delivery of the Faculty and the University.
The Dean appreciated Alhaja Aminat Adesina, who committed herself to ensuring that the Late Dr Adesina’s desire to complete the project was accomplished. She also appreciated his foreign partners, Kexing Animal Health, China, for the partnership.
The wife of the donor, Alhaja Aminat Adesina said her husband had the vision of establishing a legacy in the University of Ibadan, stating that this was what led to the construction of the veterinary laboratory building in partnership with Kexing Animal Health, China.
She appreciated the Dean of Veterinary Medicine for her kindness, support, empathy and compassion throughout her period of grief and also acknowledged the letter of condolence received from the University of Ibadan as a show of great concern and love.
Alhaja Adesina assured that the central laboratory would be renovated every five years in the hope of a continuous collaboration with the faculty.
Goodwill messages were delivered at the ceremony by Kabiyesi Olu of Igboora, His Majesty, Oba Jimoh Titiloye; Kabiyesi Oluaso of Iberekodo, Oba Jamiu Badmos; Kabiyesi Asawo of Ayete, Oba Emmanuel Okeniyi Ariwoola; and a representative of the DVM class of 1992, Professor D. O. Oluwayelu.
The unveiling of the signage of the Suraj Adesina Research and Development Centre and commemorative plaque was done by the Vice-Chancellor with the support of the benefactor, Alhaja Aminat Adesina.
The university management team, royal majesties, and deans of other faculties were in attendance at the ceremony.
Credit: UI DIRECTORATE OF PUBLIC COMMUNICATION
