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By Bianca Iboma-Emefu
The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, has called for deeper collaboration between the institution, its alumni, and industry players, stressing that modern universities can no longer thrive in isolation.
Speaking at the Anniversary Dinner with the Corporate World and Award Night organised by the UNILAG Alumni Association, Lagos State Branch, Ogunsola said the institution’s quest for global relevance hinges on building stronger, mutually beneficial partnerships.
“Modern universities cannot thrive in isolation; they require a symbiotic relationship to compete globally,” she noted. “While we have deepened our engagement with international institutions, multilateral agencies and strengthened innovation through our Entrepreneurship and Skills Development Centre, much more can be achieved through robust collaboration with alumni and industry partners.”
She appealed for greater support in the areas of endowments, scholarships, and foreign teaching exchanges, especially for students from disadvantaged backgrounds. Ogunsola also urged industry leaders to present real-life challenges to the university for collaborative research and problem-solving.
“We want industry partners to challenge us and let us show you what we can do. This is how we equip our students with the practical skills they need,” she added.
Meanwhile,Chairman of the UNILAG Alumni Association, Lagos State Branch, Comrade Adedeji Owoeye,said the dinner was conceived as a platform to strengthen the bridge between “the gown and the town.”
“This event is more than a dinner. It is a celebration of shared values, partnerships, and the growing synergy between academia and industry,” he said.
Adedeji described the initiative as a deliberate effort by the alumni to give back to the university through impactful action, addressing infrastructural and academic gaps.
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“Our goal is clear—to build bridges between knowledge producers in the university and the industries that power our economy. Through your support, we can drive innovation, mentorship, internships, and infrastructure development,” he added.
He also noted the significant progress recorded by the Lagos Branch in the past year, attributing the achievements to strong support from members and corporate partners.
Additionally,Special Guest of Honour and Chairman of Platform Capital, Dr. Akintoye Akindele, delivered an inspiring message centred on purpose, grace and responsibility.
“Life is too precious to live in comparison. We are not defined by our struggles but by grace,” he said, urging alumni to see nation-building as a collective duty, not the responsibility of government alone.
Akindele recalled his role in establishing the Lagos Business School–UNILAG partnership, describing it as an example of how purposeful collaboration can transform institutions.
On her part,Deputy Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Mojisola Meranda, commended the association’s commitment to connecting the corporate world with the university, pledging continued support.
“I am impressed by this initiative and the impact you aim to make in UNILAG and Lagos State at large,” she said.
Several distinguished individuals were honoured for their contributions to society and the UNILAG alumni community. Awardees included:Hon. Mojisola Lasbat Meranda,
Dr. Segun Oshundairo,
Mr. Moyosore Adebanjo, Special Adviser on Central Internal Audit to the Lagos State Governor,Dr. Ayoola Oyeyemi,Dr. Olufemi Ogunsanya,Mr. Adigun Saheed,Mr. Yussuf Kelani, Dr Akintoye Akinyele CEO Platform Capital, Comrade Ayodele Olawande ,Dr. Seinde Fadeni, Mr Folios Philips,Dr. Olufemi Ogunsanya, Hon Seyi Jakande, Alhaji Adigun Saheed, Akerele Ajewole, Hon Tunbosun Aruwe.
The event ended with renewed commitments from alumni, industry partners, and university leadership to work together in shaping a future driven by innovation, excellence, and social impact.
