Adekunle Ajasin University (AAUA), Akungba Akoko, like many institutions of higher learning globally, faces the challenge of maintaining and enhancing its educational standards amidst constrained resources. The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Olugbenga Ige, has emphasized the critical role of alumni associations in bridging this resource gap and bolstering the university’s growth. Speaking at the 2024 national convention of the AAUA Alumni Association, Prof. Ige, represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Administration, Prof. Adebisi Daramola, underscored the collaborative nature of university development, stating that no ivory tower can thrive solely on its internal resources. He highlighted the competitive landscape for funding among Ondo State’s three state universities, further compounded by the introduction of 11 new academic programs at AAUA, all requiring financial support. The Vice-Chancellor’s appeal to the alumni reflects a growing recognition of the vital partnership between universities and their graduates in achieving institutional advancement and ensuring quality education.
The Vice-Chancellor’s address specifically highlighted the financial constraints faced by AAUA. Competing with two other state universities for limited state funding creates a challenging environment for resource allocation. The addition of 11 new programs further stretches the existing resources, emphasizing the need for alternative funding sources. Professor Ige’s call for alumni support is not simply a plea for donations, but a strategic imperative to maintain the university’s competitiveness and ensure the quality of its expanding academic offerings. His emphasis on collaboration underscores the shared responsibility between the university and its alumni in shaping the institution’s future. The success of AAUA, he suggests, is inextricably linked to the active engagement and support of its graduates.
The call for alumni support extends beyond financial contributions. Professor Ige urged the alumni to actively champion the university’s positive reputation and to remain diligently engaged in its progress. This highlights the importance of alumni as ambassadors who can promote the institution’s strengths and achievements within their professional networks and the wider community. Building a strong alumni network fosters a sense of pride and ownership among graduates, encouraging them to contribute not only financially but also through mentorship, networking, and advocacy. This proactive engagement of the alumni body can significantly enhance the university’s visibility and attract further support from other stakeholders.
The alumni association’s president, Dr. Olumide Olugbemi-Gabriel, echoed the Vice-Chancellor’s sentiment, emphasizing the importance of altruistic service to the alma mater. He expressed his appreciation for the existing contributions of alumni members, acknowledging their sacrifices and commitment to the university’s well-being. Dr. Olugbemi-Gabriel stressed the association’s role as a platform for giving back to the institution rather than a vehicle for personal gain. This underscores the importance of aligning individual alumni goals with the collective objective of strengthening the university’s standing and ensuring its continued success. It promotes a culture of selfless service and encourages alumni to view their contributions as an investment in the future of AAUA.
Further emphasizing the importance of intellectual development, guest speaker Prof. Benson Igboin highlighted the crucial role of cultivating students’ and alumni’s minds for advanced learning in ensuring the long-term sustainability of universities. He argued that fostering a culture of continuous learning and intellectual curiosity is paramount for both individual and institutional growth. Professor Igboin posited that a well-trained mind can readily acquire and apply technical skills and knowledge, making the development of critical thinking and problem-solving abilities a cornerstone of effective education. His perspective underscores the broader societal impact of a robust university education that extends beyond the acquisition of specific skills to encompass the development of well-rounded individuals capable of adapting to a rapidly evolving world.
In conclusion, the 2024 national convention of the AAUA Alumni Association served as a platform to reinforce the critical partnership between the university and its graduates. The Vice-Chancellor’s appeal for enhanced alumni support, both financial and reputational, underscored the shared responsibility in ensuring AAUA’s continued growth and development. The association’s president reiterated the importance of selfless service, encouraging alumni to prioritize the collective good of the institution over individual gains. Professor Igboin’s focus on cultivating intellectual growth highlighted the enduring value of a university education that extends beyond technical skills to encompass the development of adaptable, critical thinkers. The convention’s overarching message emphasized the importance of a strong, engaged alumni network as a vital component of a thriving university ecosystem.
