The University of Lagos has renewed its call for stronger collaboration between academia and industry as part of efforts to build a future-ready, research-driven institution with global relevance.
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, made the call at a dinner with corporate leaders organised by the University of Lagos Alumni Association, Lagos State Branch.
She said universities can no longer function in isolation if they must remain competitive and responsive to real-world challenges. According to her, meaningful partnerships between “town and gown” are critical to advancing research, innovation, and national development.
“Modern universities cannot thrive in isolation. They need strong, mutually beneficial relationships to compete globally,” she said, adding that UNILAG has continued to strengthen ties with international institutions and multilateral agencies.
Ogunsola noted that the university’s management has prioritised innovation through its entrepreneurship and skills development centre, alongside ongoing infrastructural renewal aimed at improving learning, research, and student life on campus.
In his welcome address, Chairman of the UNILAG Alumni Association, Lagos State Branch, Mr Owoeye Adedeji, described the gathering as a celebration of shared responsibility between the university and the wider society.
He said the initiative was designed to give alumni a practical platform to contribute to the university’s growth by addressing academic and infrastructural gaps through collective action.
“Our goal is to connect knowledge from the university with industries that drive the economy. With your support, we can promote innovation, mentorship, internships, and infrastructure development,” he said.
Special Guest of Honour and Chairman of Platform Capital, Dr Akintoye Akindele, commended the alumni for the initiative and urged them to remain committed to nation-building. He highlighted his long-standing partnership with UNILAG, particularly his contributions to strengthening the UNILAG Business School.
Also speaking, the Deputy Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mrs Mojisola Meranda, praised the association for fostering collaboration between academia and the corporate sector. She pledged continued support for initiatives that promote sustainable development within the university and Lagos State.
“I am impressed by this initiative and the calibre of people being brought together to support meaningful development,” she said.
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