Investment in education pays best dividend –Adegunwa

Sulaiman Adebola Adegunwa, Chancellor of Summit University, Offa, Kwara State, and Chairman of Rite Foods Limited, has identified investment in quality education as a catalyst for sustainable socio-economic development.

Adegunwa stated this at the weekend while delivering address at the 5th and 6th combined convocation ceremony of the University, according to a statement.

According to him, the dedication and financial commitment of stakeholders have continued to strengthen the university’s foundation and growth trajectory. He appealed to well-meaning individuals to support the institution in its drive for sustainable development.

“This event marks a key milestone for our university. It honours our graduates and celebrates our shared success. An investment in knowledge pays the best dividend. The journey we have embarked upon with Summit University stands as one of the most rewarding investments.

“Our dividend from this investment is not only for today; it is also for posterity. Let us join hands to lift Summit University high, open doors to quality education, and change the world for the better,” he said.

Reflecting on the institution’s progress, the Chancellor noted that the University has experienced remarkable growth since he assumed office as the pioneer Chancellor in December 2023.

“Since the last convocation, undergraduate programmes have increased from eight to 16. Additionally, six academic programmes recently underwent reaccreditation, and full accreditation was secured from the National Universities Commission.

“I commend the University Management, Governing Council, and Board of Trustees. The growth we see today is a testament to your hard work and strategic planning. Your commitment has strengthened the foundation of this university,” he said.

Adegunwa highlighted the significant infrastructural advancement that had taken place in the University since its last convocation ceremony in 2023, adding that foundation for four major buildings were laid and one was already completed and ready for use while two were nearing completion.

“At this point, I sincerely appreciate Mosun Belo-Olusoga and other donors whose support continues to strengthen this university. Your generosity is a catalyst for our progress. May Almighty Allah bless you abundantly,” he said.

Adegunwa further revealed that preparations were underway for the verification of the University’s resources for new programmes in the College of Law and the College of Health Sciences.

At the Convocation ceremony, the University conferred honorary doctorate degrees (Honoris Causa) on Aderemi Muyideen Makanjuola and Lateefat Olufunke Gbajabiamila, as well as a posthumous honorary doctorate degree in Business Administration on the late Tiamiyu Adebisi Olatinwo, among other awardees.

In his remarks, the Vice Chancellor and Chief Academic Officer, Abiodun Musa Aibinu expressed appreciation to the Chancellor for donating the ongoing Senate Building project, which he said is now 30% completed.

He noted that upon completion, the structure would significantly enhance the University’s infrastructure.

The Vice Chancellor announced that a total of 319 students graduated: 26 with first-class honours, 164 with second-class upper division, 108 with second-class lower division, 25 with third-class, and one with a pass.

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