Meduoye rallies support for tertiary learning

Gowon, others eulogise Kolade as newly installed chancellor

Visitor to McPherson University (McU), Ogun State, and General Overseer of Foursquare Gospel Church, Rev. Felix Meduoye, has called on non-governmental groups, including the organised private sector to contribute their quota in support of tertiary education in the country.

This is as former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, has felicitated the new chancellor of the school, Dr. Christopher Kolade.

Meduoye, while speaking at the occasion, in which 39 pioneer students received certificates and prizes in various disciplines, said that participation of the private sector became imperative owing to the fact that university education requires huge resources to provide modern learning facilities, and promote research culture and development among others.

He said, “The societal challenge is that government alone cannot fund tertiary education. This is due to important needs that compete for its inadequate resources. This is why the Foursquare Gospel Church founded McU as a way of complementing government efforts. In our own little way, we have, since inception, been subsidising school fees by almost 100 per cent, we also give additional rebates and scholarships.

“I use the opportunity to call on non-governmental organisations and well-meaning individuals to participate in funding and providing infrastructural supports such that will engender a suitable learning environment and research base in our universities. Private sector participation in education delivery is a blessing to our nation. I thank all those who have been supporting this noble course.”

Gowon on his part said Kolade’s life accomplishment came as a result of living a life of service and standing for what is upright.

“He is a beacon of hope, especially to upcoming generations. McU is blessed to have this outstanding Nigerian as the chancellor. The Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Prof. Israel Folorunso Adu, has also been an inspiration to me and has continually provided exemplary leadership of which the university has benefitted immensely.”

Vice Chancellor of the institution, Prof. Adeniyi Agunbiade, said the school has within its short existence, put in place necessary structures of governance, while students have continued to excel in academic and sporting competitions.

“Our members of staff have continued to win international academic laurels as a result of outstanding research endeavours.

Out of the 39 graduating students, 8 graduated in the First Class Division; 17 bagged second class upper degrees, 13 finished in second class lower division, while one had third class.