Plans have been concluded by the Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State, to raise the sum of N20 billion endowment fund to develop the institution to a world-class standard further.

The Chairman of Council and Pro-chancellor of the university, Prof Oluwatoyin Ashiru, disclosed this in Lagos at a reunion of the first set of graduates, 39 years after graduation.

The pioneer students, now grandparents and senior citizens, organised the event under the aegis of Ogun State University Pioneers Alumni Association (OSUPA).

Ashiru, who chaired the event, said the special fund to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the first set would serve as a sustainable financial reservoir for the 43-year-old institution.

According to him, the fund will be invested to support academic activities, scholarships, equipment, research, innovation centres, and campus improvements, thus creating a worthy legacy.

He urged the pioneer graduates from across Nigeria and overseas to be the first group to donate to the fund, and see their donations as a ‘great seed planted’ to grow the school.

He disclosed that special committees, comprising key segments such as the governing council, management, the university Senate, the alumni association and the school’s development foundation, would be constituted to drive the initiative.

Ashiru expressed delight that members have remained connected and committed to the development of their alma mater. He acknowledged that gathering alumni, especially of the same set in large numbers, is always difficult.

“So, I cherish your togetherness. It is more than a reunion party. It celebrates courage, resilience, grit, grace, friendship, success and the glorious pioneering spirit.

“You are indeed a unique class, trailblazers who built the institution’s foundation when there was virtually nothing – no campus, no fence, no lecture halls, barely enough lecturers – just raw determination,” Ashiru added.

While emphasising the need for more support from corporate organisations, groups and individuals, Ashiru highlighted some of the achievements recorded by the university.

According to him, the institution now offers about 18 courses, and enjoys a steady academic calendar, prioritising staff welfare and infrastructural development.

“This is a rare development in the history of Nigerian university education, underscoring the leadership commitment to truly reposition our university to a world-class standard,” he added.

In her welcome address, the chairperson of the group, Mrs. Olufunmilayo Olotu, reflected on their time as pioneer students and how they had to trek long distances daily to receive lectures

“That experience, with the kind of quality training we received then, prepared us for life after graduation. And today, we are thanking God for making us who we are in our respective fields.”

Olotu said the group was officially formed four years ago, and has since then, contributed to the development of the university and welfare of members. She pledged that the group would not relent in giving back to OOU, thanking her colleagues for their unflinching support and commitment to the group’s mandates.