By Our Reporter
The University of Lagos, UNILAG, Alumni Association has commended the Federal Government for taking steps towards the development of Education section.
The President of the association, Mr Ifeoluwa Oyedele, gave the commendation during a news conference marking the association’s 55th Anniversary and Award night coming up later in the year.
The alumni president acknowledged the timely establishment of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund, NELFUND.
“This has made it possible for students in Nigeria to continue with their education without any break.
“Recently, the federal government also approved full scholarship for students in technical education at all levels. This is really commendable,” stated Oyedele.
Also, he lauded the federal government for taking steps to resolve the impasse between it and the Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU.
The alumni president seized the occasion to call for a lasting solution to FG/ASUU disagreement, in order to stem the tide of frequent nationwide strike, which effects include the distruption of academic calendar.
“The salaries of our lecturers is nothing to write about, and that’s why we suffer from an excessive brain drain.
“A university professor cannot even afford to send his own children to the same university where he lectures. That has to change.
“I am happy that the federal government at the highest level, has waded into this issue and I am optimistic that the government will not allow us to go on strike.
“However, we must devise a new strategy, a new model for funding education.
“Our educational sector is under strain. From the primary to tertiary level, institutions face overwhelming challenges,” Oyedele said.
He mentioned inadequate funding affecting the capacity to deliver quality education, as well as the issue of brain drain that had made the country to lose its best minds to developed nations.
“Also, the persistent challenge of welfare for our teachers, lecturers and researchers is a very good task to shape the minds of the next generation.
“That is why, as an association, we have chosen to be part of the solution,” noted the alumni president
Oyedele said that over the years the alumni had helped to boost the quality of students’ mentorship and support, adding that it had also opened doors of opportunity to many students.
“We have contributed to rebuilding some of our lecture halls and hostels, and undertaken advocacy to ensure that issues of education remain at the forefront of our national conversation.
“We cannot wait to do more,” he said.
He challenged government at all level to accord education the true quality it deserves.
He also called on Nigerians, especially the alumni to give back to their Alma mater, whether through mentorship, financial support, advocacy. or through other meaningful ways.
“Every contribution matters and in spite of the challenges, I stand before you today full of optimism. Nigeria is a place of talent, resilience, and creativity.
“With the right support, our universities will not only compete with their global counterparts but also drive national development in science, technology, the arts and government.
“The truth of the matter is that education needs money. And without money, you cannot perform education,” Oyedele stressed.
Speaking on the alumni’s 55th anniversary celebration, Oyedele said that the recognition and award night was not just another event on the calendar, but a flagship gathering of all alumni worldwide.
He informed that it was an event where all the alumni would come together to celebrate excellence, honour outstanding contributions, and very importantly, raise the much needed funds to support the association.
“This year’s edition is particularly significant because it marks our 55th anniversary.
“It will take place on Oct. 17, and will be held at Eko Hotel and Suites, with the Special Guest of Honour being His Excellency, the Vice President, Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Ibrahim Shettima,” he said.
Awardees with various recognition for the coming alumni anniversary celebration include Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, the Chief Justice of Nigeria; Wole Olanipekun, Pro-Chancellor, UNILAG, among others.
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