The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Prof. Folasade Ogunshola, has appealed for stronger support from alumni and industry partners to help the university stay globally competitive and better serve its students.
Speaking on Sunday night at the maiden Dinner with the Corporate World and Award Night organised by the UNILAG Alumni Association, Lagos State Branch, Prof. Ogunshola praised alumni for their steady contributions but stressed that more collaboration was needed.
She explained that no modern university could grow alone, saying meaningful partnerships were key to innovation, improved learning, and real-world problem-solving.
According to her, UNILAG has made major progress through international partnerships and ongoing infrastructural upgrades, but more support is needed—especially for students from disadvantaged backgrounds. She therefore called for endowments and scholarships.
She also urged industries to work more closely with the university by presenting real-life challenges that can drive research and give students practical skills.
“We want industry partners to challenge us and let us show what we can do,” she said.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Lagos State Branch of the Alumni Association, Comrade Owoeye Adedeji, said the event was created to strengthen the bond between “the gown and the town”—the university and the wider society. He noted that alumni could help close infrastructural and academic gaps by uniting their efforts.
Special Guest of Honour, Dr. Akintoye Akindele, encouraged alumni to stay committed to giving back, describing gratitude and service as essential to nation-building. He shared his experience of supporting the UNILAG Business School through collaboration.
Other dignitaries, including the Deputy Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mrs. Mojisola Meranda, praised the initiative and pledged continued support for projects that will benefit UNILAG and Lagos State.
Several individuals were also honoured for their contributions, including Dr. Segun Oshundairo, Mr. Moyosore Adebanjo, Dr. Olufemi Ogunsanya, Dr. Ayoola Oyeyemi, Mr. Adigun Saheed, Mr. Yussuf Kelani, among others.
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.
