The College of Medicine at the University of Lagos marked a significant milestone by celebrating the 40th graduation anniversary of its 1984 class with the establishment of a $2 million endowment fund. This initiative is intended to enhance academic excellence and infrastructure within the institution. The fund’s inauguration occurred during a gala dinner as part of a weeklong reunion program, held late Saturday at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Hall, Radisson Blu Hotel in Ikeja, Lagos State. The alumni group not only pledged financial support through the endowment but also took practical steps by donating a renewable power structure and renovating several educational facilities within the college.
Prof. Ayodeji Olamijulo, the Chairman of the organizing committee, emphasized the important role that alumni can play in improving their alma mater, especially as government support can often be insufficient. Recognizing that collaboration among alumni is vital for enhancing learning conditions, Olamijulo noted their commitment to give back to society. As part of their reunion activities, the attendees commissioned a renewable power energy structure to promote sustainability. Additionally, they made a humanitarian contribution to the Heart of Gold Children Hospital, where many abandoned children reside, underlining their goal to positively impact the community beyond just their educational contributions.
The gathering also served as a moment to remember deceased colleagues who were part of the 1984 graduation set. Olamijulo urged attendees to reflect on the fleeting nature of life and encouraged them to strive for legacies that carry meaningful impacts. He highlighted the pressing need for more financial resources to address the institution’s infrastructural issues, specifically mentioning the alarming costs related to the renovation of students’ accommodation. The estimated budget for renovating just one block of the hostel was around N280 million—an indication of the extensive needs of the college as they have multiple blocks requiring serious attention.
The attention then turned to the role of Nigeria’s youth in nation-building, with Olamijulo issuing a passionate call for young people to recognize their potential in shaping the future. While acknowledging that many may consider opportunities overseas, he emphasized that the successes seen in nations like the United States and those in Europe stem from the dedication of their citizens to foster national development. This sentiment resonates with the alumni’s goal of reinvigorating the country through active participation and dedication to improvement.
Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Lagos, expressed her gratitude towards the alumni for their generous contributions and the establishment of the endowment fund. She underscored the growing number of students enrolled in the College of Medicine and the importance of alumni collaborating to provide expertise in their respective fields. In her view, integrating the alumni’s wealth of knowledge and experience could significantly contribute to the quality of education the institution offers its students, thereby fostering a new generation of healthcare professionals.
Dr. Kunle Hassan, the event’s Chairman and CEO of Eye Foundation Hospital, lauded the Vice Chancellor’s initiative to engage the alumni in various capacities. His praise for the collaborative effort reflects a shared vision for the college’s future, where alumni and faculty work together to elevate the standards of education and medical training. The establishment of the endowment fund and other infrastructural donations symbolize a renewed commitment to the mission of the College of Medicine, fostering a brighter educational landscape that prioritizes excellence while addressing immediate needs within the institution.
