Education

  University of Lagos has reiterated the critical role of private sector collaboration and philanthropy in maintaining quality education, as it unveiled newly refurbished facilities within its Faculty of Education. The university made the call in a statement issued on Wednesday following the unveiling of a refurbished Health Education Resource Room, two upgraded lecture hall, and modern learning conveniences. Representing the Vice-Chancellor, Folasade Ogunsola, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Management Services), Muyiwa Falaiye, said infrastructure development remained central to the institution’s growth strategy. “Infrastructural development is a cornerstone of the University’s strategic agenda. Modern, well-maintained facilities are essential for fostering academic excellence, promoting inclusive learning environments, and aligning with global best practices in higher education,” Falaiye said. He stressed that with shrinking government funding and increasing infrastructural demands, universities must increasingly rely on external support. “In the face of limited government funding and rising infrastructural demands, public-private partnerships and philanthropic contributions remain indispensable to achieving sustainable development goals in education,” he said. Falaiye commended the donor, Marvelous Akinola, whose endowment funded the project, and the facilitator, Prof. Aaron Akinloye of the Department of Human Kinetics and Health Education, for driving the initiative. “This project is a clear demonstration of what strategic partnerships can achieve. We are deeply grateful for this intervention, which directly impacts teaching, research, and student learning outcomes,” he added. He also assured all that the university would continue to accelerate infrastructure development across faculties. “University Management remains committed to fast-tracking ongoing projects across campus, urging staff and students to ensure proper use and maintenance of these facilities to sustain their long-term impact,” Falaiye said. Also speaking, the Dean of the Faculty of Education, Simeon Oladipo, described the intervention as timely and transformative. “This is more than a physical upgrade; it is a strategic investment in the future of our students. These facilities will enhance the delivery of Health Education, support innovative teaching methodologies, and strengthen practical and skills-based learning,” Oladipo said. He emphasised the link between infrastructure and academic outcomes. “The quality of the learning environment plays a decisive role in shaping the competencies of future professionals. “With these upgraded facilities, both staff and students are better positioned to achieve higher standards of excellence and contribute meaningfully to national development,” he said. Oladipo also highlighted the critical role of alumni and private donors in bridging funding gaps in Nigerian universities. “Alumni-driven interventions are vital to expanding infrastructure, strengthening partnerships, and ensuring sustainable development. “This contribution underscores the enduring value of giving back to the institution,” he said. The university noted that the commissioning reflects the growing role of philanthropy in repositioning Nigerian universities for improved learning outcomes and global competitiveness. “This initiative underscores the transformative impact of private support in enhancing infrastructure and enriching the academic environment,” the statement added.