By Olayinka Ajayi

The Deputy Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Mojisola Merenda, and the Vice Chancellor, the University of Lagos, UNILAG, Prof Folasade Ogunshola, yesterday, gave a thumbs up to the university’s alumni association, Lagos Branch, over its plans to open an Artificial Intelligence centre on the campus, as well as many other projects initiated by the association.

Speaking at the association’s maiden dinner and award night with the corporate world, Merenda, who commended the association’s plans to build bridges between the university and the corporate world, lauded the association for its impactful projects.

She pledged to support the association in making an impact in the university community and the state at large.

She said, “What more can I say? I am impressed by the initiative and in support of those that you will be bringing together to support UNILAG alumni in impactful development in the university and Lagos State at large.”

In her remarks, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ogunshola, while commending the alumni for their steadfast contribution and plans for their alma mater, noted: “Modern universities cannot thrive in isolation; it requires a symbiotic relationship to compete globally.

“We have deepened our partnership with international institutions and multilateral agencies. We have prioritized innovation emerging from our Entrepreneurship and Skills Development Centre, the impact of infrastructural renewal, aimed at improving the learning, research, and residential experience across the university.

“These advancements are part of our broader vision to position the university, as a globally competitive, future-ready, and research-driven institution capable of responding effectively to national and global challenges.

“While the university has made considerable progress, it is clear that much more can be achieved through robust collaborations with alumni and business partners. I, therefore, use this occasion to make a formal appeal for people and teachers in foreign areas, endowments, and scholarships to support students from academically disadvantaged backgrounds.

“We also would like industry research partners to speak of problems to us, challenge us, help us, and let us show you what we can do so that we can equip our students with the practical skills that they have.”

The Lagos Branch Chairman of the alumni association, Comrade Adedeji Owoeye, thanked members for coming, saying, “Our goal is clear: to build bridges between knowledge producers of the university and industries that power our economy. Through support, we can drive innovation.”