The Acting Vice Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Prof. Babatunde Ekanola has affirmed that the Alumni of the Institution have a very vital role to play in sustaining the University’s greatness.
The Acting VC was speaking while receiving the pioneer set of Pharmacy in his office recently.
In his words: “UI is a big community, consisting of not only staff and students, but also its alumni who occupy a very important position, and we therefore have a collective responsibility to build the University to what we want to make it”
Prof. Ekanola appreciated the pioneer set of the Faculty of pharmacy who were in the University to donate a Coffee shop worth #3million to the Faculty of Pharmacy, stating that the gift is by extension to the entire University.
He acknowledged the fact that for the set to have come back to give to its alma mater after 27 years of graduation, showcased that they had fond memories while in the University.
This gesture according to the Acting VC, poses a challenge to the rest of the University community, that on moving forward, they should respect and treat students with dignity so that they will gladly and willingly give back to their Alma mater in the future, when they are well positioned to do so.
Like Oliver twist, Prof Ekanola stated, the University would appreciate it if its alumni could do more, as there was still so much to do together for the ultimate good of the University.
He expressed the confidence of the management that it can leverage on the vast network of visiting set and other alumni to facilitate opportunities for the University and young graduates, knowing their interest in their Alma mater.
Speaking earlier on behalf of her colleagues, the Coordinator of the 25 member pioneer set of Pharmacy, Pharm. Foluke Akinniranye expressed their delight to be back in UI. Reminiscing over the period they were students in UI with great nostalgia, she stated that UI had deposited so much in them, making them quality products that stand out and are appreciated wherever they find themselves. She stated that giving back was only a way of appreciating their Alma mater for the seed of greatness planted in them.
Other members of the Pioneer Set who were present at the occasion were Pharm. Oluyemi Ogedengbe, Pharm. Olusola Porter and Pastor Oladapo Oladiran. Also present was the President, Faculty of Pharmacy Alumni Association, Pharm. Adeyemi Olayinka,
Receiving the set with the Acting VC were the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration) Prof. Kayode Adebowale, FAS, Dean Faculty of Pharmacy, Prof Oluwatoyin Odeku, former Deans of the Faculty of Pharmacy, Prof. Oludele Itiola and Prof Lanre Moody, Dean of Students Prof Adekeye Abiona, Prof, Grace Gbotoso, Prof Olakunle Idowu, Dr Omonike Ogbole, Dr Olayemi Adegbolagun, Dr O. E. Thomas, Dr O.A. Olatunji. Others include the Director, University Advancement Centre, Mr A. A. Adeosun, Director, Directorate of Public Communication, Mr O. M. Oladejo, the Deputy Registrar, VC’s Office, Mr Oluwole Dada and the Faculty Officer, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mr A.O. Babalola among others.
