The Acting Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Ilaro, Ogun State, Dr. Mikhail Akinde, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the establishment of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), describing it as a timely intervention that is already easing financial pressure on students and keeping many in school.
Akinde disclosed this on Monday during a media engagement and exhibition of fabricated machines held as part of activities marking the institution’s 23rd convocation ceremony scheduled for Wednesday.
According to him, the institution has so far received about ₦32 million under the NELFUND scheme, benefiting 233 students. He noted that the intervention has prevented several students from dropping out due to financial constraints, adding that it has strengthened access to higher education across the institution.
“I can tell you that NELFUND is actually impacting the lives of students. Many would have been denied the opportunity to sit for their examinations, but those captured under the scheme were able to write their exams,” he said, expressing appreciation to the Federal Government.
Beyond financial support, Akinde used the occasion to call on investors within and outside Nigeria to partner with the institution in the mass production of innovations developed by staff and students.
He explained that such collaboration would help reduce dependence on imported machinery, especially for small and medium-scale enterprises, while also creating jobs.
He stressed that as the institution transitions from a polytechnic into a university, it remains committed to strengthening technical and practical education to bridge Nigeria’s technological gap and improve employability among graduates.
“This event showcases the incredible work of our talented researchers, innovators, and students, pushing boundaries and driving progress. From cutting-edge tech to impactful solutions, these projects reflect our commitment to excellence and real-world relevance,” he said.
The exhibition featured a range of locally developed machines, including solar- and battery-powered tricycles, palm oil digesters, PET bottle shredders, maize dehuskers, defeathering machines, and incubators. Akinde said many of these inventions are ready for mass production if supported by investors.
“Our challenge, however, revolves around getting investors who could partner with us for mass production of several of these machines. We are seeking partnerships to deploy technology that creates wealth for the nation,” he added.
Also speaking, the Director of Research and Development, Dr. S.A. Odunlami, described the exhibition as evidence of the transformative power of innovation in solving real-life challenges. He said the projects reflect technical skill, collaboration, and a strong commitment to sustainable development.
Meanwhile, Akinde revealed that the institution would honour several distinguished Nigerians at its convocation, including Ogun State Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun, Katsina State Governor Dr. Dikko Radda (who will deliver the convocation lecture), the Olubadan of Ibadanland Oba Rasheed Ladoja, and the Alake of Egbaland Oba Adedotun Gbadebo, in recognition of their contributions to national development.
Credit: ThePunch
EduTimes Africa, a product of Education Times Africa, is a magazine publication that aims to lend its support to close the yawning gap in Africa's educational development.