From Bamigbola Gbolagunte, Akure
The Vice Chancellor of the University of Medical Sciences (UNIMED), Ondo, Prof. Adesegun Fatusi, has called for proper funding of the nation’s universities, rather than establishing new ones.
He also advocated for the proper scrutiny of private universities to ensure that substandard institutions are not established by private individuals.
Addressing a press conference at the university’s campus to herald activities marking the 10th anniversary of the institution, Prof. Fatusi noted that the proliferation of universities in the country requires government oversight.
The university, established in 2014 by the administration of former Governor Olusegun Mimiko, has produced professionals in various health-related disciplines.
Prof. Fatusi called on both the federal and state governments to adequately fund the universities they have established. He also stated that some universities established by private individuals are not deserving of the title “university.”
He said, “The Federal Government should pump money into the existing universities and take care of them, rather than establishing new ones. The state governments should also fund the universities they own, rather than establishing new ones. Private individuals should stop establishing shops and calling them universities.”
Regarding the 10th anniversary, Prof. Fatusi highlighted that the university has, within its first 10 years, produced three sets of medical doctors—a rare achievement in Nigeria’s university system.
He also disclosed that the university has made significant research breakthroughs over the past decade, many of which have received international recognition.
Furthermore, the Vice Chancellor mentioned that the university has supported its host community in various ways, particularly by providing medical care and offering scholarships to select brilliant but indigent students.
The university actively monitors students, conducting periodic checks regarding drug consumption. Some students have been expelled over the past 10 years for violating the institution’s rules.
Prof. Fatusi further informed that all courses offered by the university are fully accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC) and other regulatory bodies.
He also stated that the university is focused on developing traditional medicine to international standards, with a particular emphasis on herbal medicine and drug discovery.
Already, the university has introduced complementary and alternative medicine, which has received full accreditation.
Looking ahead, Prof. Fatusi shared that the university aims for gradual growth and plans to introduce new courses.