What played out at the ground breaking and foundation laying ceremony that took place in the early hours of Saturday 2nd March, 2024 at the University of Ilesa, could simply be tagged ' An Epoch making Event'.
The Board Of Trustees (BOT) members of the Endowment Fund had earlier signified intention to donate a monumental, well equipped laboratory to the Faculty of Nursing Sciences.
In his welcome address, the pioneer Vice Chancellor of UNILESA, Professor Taiwo Olufemi Asaolu, Ph.D; FCA thanked the donor community ably led by the high Chief Akinwande Akinola, the Sawe of Ilesa for being so magnanimous, stressing that the task of raising and maintaining a world class University could not be single handedly shouldered by the government..., '' there was a need for collaboration'' he remarked.
The Vice Chancellor also lauded the unsurpassed magnanimity of the state government ably led by Senator Nurudeen,Ademola Jackson Adeleke. He recalled with a deep sense of indebtedness, the overwhelming support the University had so far received from government which metamorphosed into a smooth take off of the first 32 programmes earlier approved by the NUC.
Reeling out yet another 32 programmes intended for 2024/2025 academic session, the Vice Chancellor remarked that there would be need for more collaborations by well meaning individuals who doubled as critical stake holders in the academic enterprise as more money would be needed by the University.
Responding, the chairman of the University's Endowment Fund reiterated the resolve of his committee to forge a robust synergy with the University. He said, before the eventual delivery of the laboratory to the University, the main gate that had hitherto been due for a complete overhaul would have worn a new look.
He added that the Laboratory whose foundation was being laid was a well thought out project whose funding had long been concluded.
Other highlights of the programme were; the introduction of the contractor, the official handing over of the approved master plan to the contractor, the release of take off grant in form of a bank cheque to the contractor.
The Lab's construction which is time bound is expected to be completed within Eighteen weeks.
In the VC's entourage were principal officers of the University. The management and other members of staff were also not left out.
The endowment fund entourage led by Chief Akin Akinola included, Lady Dupe Ajayi Gbadebo, Engr Oluyemi Oguntominiyi, Prince Dr. Gbenga Lufadeju, Chief Afolabi Igbaroola, Mr. Wale Idowu, Prof. Adegoke Olanrewaju, Dr Mrs Margaret Omodara, Dr Anthony Ayo Ayeni and Oba Adedoyin Adelekun.
(👆The report was compiled by the Media and Publicity Arm of the University.)
KEYNOTE ADDRESS DELIVERED BY CHIEF AKIN AKINOLA, THE CHAIRMAN, BOARD TRUSTEES, UNILESA ENDOWMENT FUND AT THE FOUNDATION LAYING CEREMONY OF THE FACULTY OF NURSING LAB BUILDING, UNILESA ON SAT. , MARCH 2, 2024.
1. PROTOCOL
2. CORE BUSINESS
Today marks another milestone in the history of the young but rapidly growing University of Ilesa.
We gather here today to witness the turning of the Sod of the building of the Laboratory of the Faculty of Nursing being sponsored by the host community.
The reality of today's event demonstrates the readiness of the host community to be part of the development evolution of the University.
Indeed, since the birth of this institution in 2022, we have left no one in doubt that we shall ensure that the institution becomes a model to other universities in Nigeria and even the world at large.
3. THE LABORATORY PROJECT
Permit me to inform this Assembly that this Laboratory project has been designed as a masterpiece for delivery within 18 weeks. It is a fixed sum contract , mutually agreed with the Contractor not to suffer any variation and delivery encumbrance.
Underscoring the goal of efficient project delivery informed the appointment of six erudite Ijesa professionals to oversee the day-to-day construction.
I have no doubt in my mind that the success of this initial project will herald further interventions in the life of this University such that our collective vision for a World class University of Ilesa will be realized in a record time.
Let us continue to see this University as our baby that must be nurtured to adulthood.
4. APPRECIATION
On behalf of His Imperial Majesty, Oba Dr Gabriel Adekunle Aromolaran 11, cfr, LLD, the Owa Obokun and Paramount Ruler of Ijesaland and the entire members of the University Endowment Fund, I welcome you all to this groundbreaking event.
Chief Akin Akinola
Sawe of Ilesa,
Chairman, Board of Trustees, Unilesa
📸All photos credit: Dr. Daramola
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