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www.unilorin.edu.ng ISSN 0331
A Weekly Publication of the Office of the Vice-Chancellor
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VOL 7 NO. 30
US firm to build N600b solar plant in Unilorin By Olusegun Mokuolu
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n American company, Arrow Capital Nigeria Limited, has concluded arrangements to build a solar energy plant at the University of Ilorin at a cost of $2.3 billion (about N600 billion). When completed, the solar plant is expected to generate a total of 500MW of electricity and significantly improve the level of power supply in the country. Signing the project's Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with the ViceChancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. AbdulGaniyu Ambali (OON), last Friday (May 6, 2016), the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Arrow Capital, Mr. Brian A. Travis, disclosed that the project would commence immediately and would be completed within five (Contd. on page 3) months. Prof. Ambali (left) and Mr. Travis displaying the MoA document shortly after its signing last Friday
We give Nigeria the best medical education ---VC By Olusegun Mokuolu
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he Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. AbdulGaniyu Ambali (OON), has said that one of the aims of the University is to give Nigerian youths the best available medical education, explaining that “this is why we continue to shop around the world for the best ideas in this regard”. Prof. Ambali stated this last Wednesday (May 4, 2016) while receiving members of the Medical Education Partnership Initiative in Nigeria (MEPIN) in his office. (Contd. on page 4)
Highlights VC commends Fuji musician, Saheed Osupa p.3 'Continue to be shining example to other students across Nigeria’ p.6 Fawole seeks better deal for female farmers p.6 Drive ICT revolution, Abimbola tells science teachers p.7 Unilorin Weekly Financial Digest p.8 The podium: Nauseating hypocrisy p.12
Industrialist seeks economic council for Ilorin Emirate By Mubarak Oladosu
A Engr. Logun presenting his address last Tuesday
prominent industrialist, Engr. Aminu Adisa Logun, has called on the Emir of Ilorin to constitute a special economic council for the Emirate as a way of ending the misery of the less privileged indigenes of the area. Engr. Logun made the call last Tuesday (May 3, 2016) in a Keynote address he presented at the opening ceremony of the 3rd Biennial Conference of the Centre for Ilorin Studies (CILS), University of Ilorin, themed “The Socio-Economic Development of the
Ilorin Emirate Since the 20th Century”. Canvassing a return to the industrialisation plans for the city, which he said has been compromised by successive governments in Kwara State over the last 30 years, the industrialist lamented the lack of any functional industrial estate in a city that is well over 100 years old and which had a clay tiles industry as far back as ( Contd. on page 5) 1924.
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Members of the Medical Education Partnership Initiative in Nigeria (MEPIN) with the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. AbdulGaniyu Ambali, Principal Officers and some senior officials of the University during the MEPIN team's visit to the University last Wednesday
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ambali (right), in a hearty discussion with a former Minister of State for Education, rd Alhaji Saka Saadu, during the 3 Biennial Conference of the Centre for Ilorin Studies, University of Ilorin, last Tuesday
The Dean, Student Affairs, Prof. A. Talabi (right), and Fuji music maestro, Dr. Saheed Osupa, during the musician's visit to the University recently
The Managing Director of Arrow Capital, Mr. Brian Travis, and the company’s Director of Business Development, Mr. Brian C. Amonu, with the Principal Officers and some senior officials of the University af
Prof. Ambali (left) welcoming the MEPIN team leader, Dr. Wadzani Gashau, to the University last Wednesday
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ambali (left), exchanging views with the immediate past Ag. Head of the Department of Mass Communication, Mr. Mahmoud Abdulraheem, during the wedding of his son, Mr. Abdulrahman Abdulraheem, penultimate Saturday, while the mother of the groom, Hajia Rafat Abdulraheem watches
PHOTOS BY OLUSOLA OLOWOYEYE and JIMOH IBRAHIM
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Why Unilorin was picked to host 500MW solar plant - American investor (Contd. from front page) Mr. Travis commended the Vice-Chancellor for his commitment to the project, noting that the project was coming up only five months after President Muhammadu Buhari (GCFR) made a commitment to solving power problem in Nigeria through solar power. The Arrow Capital boss added that the University was chosen for the project because of the centrality of its location, which he said is ideal to transmit power generated to Kano and Lagos. According to the Arrow Capital CEO, the project, when completed, would provide 10% of Nigeria's total power need and create jobs with several multiplier effects. He also said that the culture of excellence in the University of Ilorin coupled with its stable academic calendar in the last 16 years, make the University an ideal location for the project, as this is a sure guarantee of security for the project. He added that the project would put the University on the
global map. On the source of funding for the project, Mr. Travis, who was accompanied to the MoA signing ceremony by the company's Director of Business Development, Mr. Brian C. Amonu, explained that it is an entirely private funded project. He pointed out that it is a good example of a private-public partnership. In his remarks, the ViceChancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Ambali, described the project as an opportunity to contribute to the effort of the Federal Government in terms of power generation and distribution. Prof. Ambali, who stated that the project would guarantee 24-hour power supply to the University, disclosed that the University consumes only about 4MW of electricity and therefore the remaining would be sold to the nation. T h e Vi c e - C h a n c e l l o r disclosed that a solar panel assembly plant would be built in the University
as part of the project, saying that it would enhance the knowledge of engineering students and the entrepreneurial skills of the students. “This project will contribute significantly to Kwara State and Nigeria at large and will be ready for commissioning by October”, Prof. Ambali revealed. The Vice-Chancellor was joined at the MoA signing by the D e p u t y Vi c e - C h a n c e l l o r (Management Services), Prof. Adedayo Abdulkareem; the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Prof. N. Y. S. Ijaiya; the Deputy ViceChancellor (RTI), Prof. Gabriel Olatunji; the Registrar, Mr. Emmanuel Dada Obafemi; the University Librarian, Dr. Joseph Omoniyi; and the Deputy Bursar, Mr. Munirudeen O. Dere Also in attendance were some members of the University Governing Council: Prof. A. S. Abdulsalam, Prof. A. A. Adeoye, and Prof. A. Sanni as well as Chairmen of all workers' unions in the University.
VC commends Fuji musician, Saheed Osupa By Olusegun Mokuolu
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he Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin Prof. AbdulGaniyu Ambali (OON), has commended Fuji music star, Dr. Saheed Osupa, saying his music in inspiring. Prof. Ambali gave the commendation penultimate Friday (April 29, 2016) when the Fuji music maestro and culture ambassador visited him in his office. The singer, who was in the University at the instance of the University Students' Union, told the Vice-Chancellor that he represents culture, stressing that that there was no way he could have come to the University without calling on Prof. Ambali, who he said has been doing great things in the University. In a brief rendition, Osupa explained that he had always wanted to be a doctor but that many of his friends misunderstood him, thinking he was going to be a medical doctor. He explained further that he chose music as his own tool to heal people, adding that he is a doctor that heals people through music.
The musician told the ViceChancellor that he was on the campus to perform as a cultural ambassador for the students to mark their Union Week. In his response, the ViceChancellor thanked the musician for the honour, noting that Osupa’s music is not just for the younger ones but for all ages. Prof. Ambali, who acknowledged Osupa as a true doctor that heals people through music, told him, “You are a doctor that injects the soul of people. You are doing a good job and I congratulate you”. The Vice-Chancellor added, “Your music is meaningful and you are talking sense. I am proud of you because you do not engage in vices usually associated with music stars. Your influence will last a long time”. Prof. Ambali also thanked the Students' Union for fishing out the music star, adding that the University of Ilorin students are trained to imbibe culture and discipline. The Vice-Chancellor noted that the University of Ilorin campus is
cult-free and drug-free, saying that the University creates an atmosphere to make them think positively. The Vice-Chancellor was joined at the courtesy visit by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (RTI), Prof. Gabriel Olatunji; the Deputy Registrar (Council Affairs), Mrs. M. O. Oladosu; the University Librarian, Dr. Joseph Omoniyi; the Deputy Bursar, Mr. O. Dere; the Deputy Director, Corporate Affairs, Mr. Kunle Akogun; the Principal Assistant Registrar in the ViceChancellor's Office, Mr. A. Sayuti; and the Protocol Officer to the ViceChancellor, Mr. S. O.Agboola. The musician was led to the office of the Vice-Chancellor by a team from the Student Affairs Unit led by the Dean of Student Affairs, Prof. A. Talabi. Others included Dr. E. O. Oriola of the Department of Geography, Mrs. K. W. Sallee, Deputy Registrar, Student Affairs, Abdulwasiu F. Eniola, President, Cultural Security Forum and Alao I. Ibrahim, President, Students' Union.
May 9, 2016
‘Unilorin Clinical Skills Lab, one of the best in the world’ He disclosed that “we mounted a concerted effort to make Unilorin a bit of the United States (of America), a bit of the United Kingdom and elsewhere. We look at those bits and pieces that make them better, and we domesticate these in such a way that improves learning in the institution. This is with a realisation that not every Nigerian can afford to send their children overseas to pursue medical education”. The Vice-Chancellor pointed out that the Clinical Skills Laboratory at the University's College of Health Sciences is one of the best in the world, judging by such facilities available in some of the most advanced countries that he had visited. And for this reason, he said it has become a sort of Mecca to medical schools from across the country. Prof. Ambali pledged the readiness of the University “to share our experience and endowments with our peers”, stressing that “it is only the knowledge that is shared that is real knowledge”. T h e Vi c e - C h a n c e l l o r disclosed that the University of Ilorin places a high premium on research across the various disciplines, saying this was the reason for the establishment of the world-class Central Research Laboratory in the institution. On the issue of skill in writing for grants, the Vice-Chancellor, told members of MEPIN that the research manager in conjunction with an expert from abroad are already training researchers at the University, adding that the training is already yielding results with an increase in the number of grants coming to researchers in the University. In addition, Prof. Ambali disclosed that the University's animal laboratory has just been completed
and would soon be equipped to commence operation. T h e Vi c e - C h a n c e l l o r disclosed that the University has recorded an increase in the number of foreign and local grants coming to its researchers. Prof. Ambali said that to guarantee constant power supply for teaching and research, the University invested in a 33KVA dedicated power line that now guarantees 21 to 22 hours power supply daily. According to the ViceChancellor, the University has created the conducive atmosphere for research with 90 per cent of the campus now connected to STM-4 internet service. He explained that the University has invested heavily in various plantations such as Teak, Oil palm, Date and Jatropha in a bid to supplement her resources without burdening the students with fees increase. “We are investing so that we do not transfer the burden to our studen Earlier in his remarks, the MEPIN team leader, Dr. Wadzani Gashau from the University of Maiduguri, said that the team was at the University of Ilorin on a studytour of its Clinical Skills Laboratory, which, he said, “is comparable to the best anywhere in the world”. Dr. Gashau said, “When we came and saw the facility, it was quite gratifying”, adding, “We are indeed impressed with the set up, the serenity of the environment and the personnel. You have a jewel here that could be explored in terms of medical tourism”. He opined that the potential of the University is great, judging by its holistic approach to education, noting in addition that the University has the best Information Communication Technology (ICT) infrastructure in the country. The team leader pointed out
Prof. Yusuf's daughter weds nuptial knots with her heartThe daughter of Prof. and Mrs Noah the throb, Mr. SaheedAbiodun Migdad.
that MEPIN provides an opportunity to address many of the challenges facing the Nigerian educational institutions today with the overall goal of improving and strengthening the medical education system in the country. He explained that MEPIN is a consortium of six universities from the six geo-political zones in the country, saying that its purpose is to enhance medical knowledge and skills in Nigeria. The MEPIN member-institutions are the University of Jos, the University of Maiduguri, the University of Ibadan, Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and the University of Lagos. The Vice-Chancellor was joined to receive the 21-man MEPIN team by members of his management team that include the Deputy ViceChancellor (Academic), Prof. N. Y. S. Ijaiya; the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Management Services), Prof. Adedayo Abdulkareem; the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (RTI), Prof. Gabriel O l a t u n j i ; t h e R e g i s t r a r, M r. Emmanuel Dada Obafemi; the University Librarian, Dr. Joseph Omoniyi; and the Bursar, represented by the Deputy Bursar, Mr. O. Dere. Also present during the visit were the Provost of the College of Health Sciences, Prof. W. R. B. Johnson; the Dean, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, Prof. O. T. Adedoyin; the Dean, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Prof. A. Akande; the Dean, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Prof. S. F. Ambali; the Deputy Director of Corporate Affairs, Mr. Kunle Akogun; the Deputy Director, Academic Planning Unit, Mr. A. Adewara; the Principal Assistant Registrars in the ViceChancellor's Office, Mr. A. Sayuti and Mr. K. K. Babamale; as well as the Protocol Officer to the ViceChancellor, Mr. S. O.Agboola.
Olaolu Hospital, Gaa Imam, Ilorin, by 10.00a.m. B. Yusuf of the Department of The wedding takes place at Members of the University Sociology, Faculty of Social the International Tobacco Company Community and the general public Sciences, Kafayat Wuraola Yusuf, (ITC), Industrial Layout, Opposite are cordially invited. will this Saturday (May 14, 2016) tie
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‘How to rescue Ilorin from its economic doldrum’ (Contd. from front page) Engr. Logun, who is the Chairman and Managing Director of Smallette Nigeria Limited, also advised the Kwara State government to look beyond those he called “kiosk owners” for its Internally Generated Revenue drive. He said the government should rather concentrate on the people “who have huge businesses in the Emirate on large swathes of land sometimes without the knowledge of the Local Government Chairmen who prefer to live at the centre of Ilorin township rather than at the outposts where they preside over”. The British-trained Chemical Engineer said, “Compared to many other areas of Nigeria we must admit that the Ilorin Emirate and its indigenes are at lower socioeconomic level today in terms of income, nutrition, wealth, standard of living”, adding that “we must accept this statement and do something about it”. Engr. Logun suggested that whatever proposal the economic council would come up with should be presented to the state and local governments for further implementation. Also speaking at the event, a former Minister of State for Education, Alhaji Saka Saádu, who chaired the Conference opening ceremony, described the theme of the
conference as germane, given that dwindling economic resources is a front-burner issue in Nigeria. Alhaji Saadu recalled that Ilorin people took entrepreneurship as important in the pre-colonial days, which, according to him, is why many houses are named after their peculiar trade and craft. He pointed out that there is a lot of room for investment in the areas of Information and Communication Technology, and culture and tourism at the moment. In his address, entitled “Essential Commodity”, the ViceChancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. AbdulGniyu Ambali, called for a return to the teaching of History and Religious Studies as compulsory subjects in the secondary school curriculum, noting that Nigeria has paid dearly for the wrong interpretation of religion. According to Prof. Ambali, “taking history and religion seriously has implication for our peaceful and harmonious development as a multicultural society and there are ample examples to support this position in Ilorin”. He added, “History and Religious Studies are essential commodities in our task of nation-building and we should make conscious effort in that direction.” The Lead Paper Presenter, who is also the pioneer Director of the Centre for Ilorin Studies, Prof.
A.G.A.S. Oladosu, in his paper, entitled “Socio-Economic Development in Ilorin: The Role of Shaykh Muhammad Kamaludeen Al_Adabiy”, noted that “the late Islamic sage-scholar, is an institution of many facets who was a spiritual leader, counsellor, and educationist that married Western and Islamic education such that Ilorin has been further strengthened as a renowned centre of scholarship”. While welcoming participants to the Conference, the Director of the Centre for Ilorin Studies and Chief Imam of Auchi, Edo State, Prof. Z. I. O. Oseni, enumerated past and ongoing projects embarked upon by the Centre. These, according to him, include mapping and documentation of Jumat Mosques in Ilorin. The conference received goodwill messages from the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu Gambari, who was represented by the MogajiNda of Ilorin, Alhaji Saliu Woru; the President of the Ilorin Emirate Descendants Progressive Union (IEDPU), Alhaji Abdulhamid Hadi and a former Commissioner for Education in Kwara State, Hajia Halimat Ajoke Yusuf, who spoke on behalf of the Federation of Muslim Women Associations of Nigeria (FOMWAN).
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Prof. Adeniyi delivers 162 Inaugural Lecture for Accuracy, Stability and The 162 Inaugural Lecture of the Condition Progress”, holds at the Main Auditorium nd
University of Ilorin will be delivered this Thursday (May 12, 2016) by Prof. Raphael Babatunde Adeniyi of the Department of Mathematics, Faculty of Physical Sciences. The Lecture, entitled “Minimization of Error: A Necessary
at 5.00p.m, under the Chairmanship of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. AbdulGaniyu Ambali (OON). Members of the University Community and the general public are cordially invited.
Prof. Adeniyi
Unilorin hosts 2016 NAMLAS Seminar
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he University of Ilorin Chapter of the Nigeria Association of Muslim Law Students (NAMLAS) will host this year year's NAMLAS National Seminar. Tagged “#ILORIN2016”, the Seminar holds between Wednesday, May 11, 2016 and Sunday, May 15, 2016. A statement made available
to Unilorin Bulletin disclosed that the Minister of Communication, Hon. Shittu Abd'Raheem Adebayo, will deliver the Keynote address at the Seminar's formal opening day on Thursday, May 12, 2016 at the UniversityAuditorium. The statement added that arrangements have also been concluded to honour the Executive Secretary of MUSWEN, Prof. D. O.
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S. Noibi, with the 7 edition of the Association's biennial journal, ALMASLAH, in recognition of his contribution to the growth of Islam in Nigeria. Participants are being expected from Faculties of Law in Universities across the country. Members of the University community and the general public are cordially invited.
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'Continue to be shining example to other students across Nigeria’ By Hamidu Mallum
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he Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. AbdulGaniyu Ambali (OON), has urged the students of the University to continue with their good conducts that have marked them out as shining examples to students of other tertiary education institutions in the country. Prof. Ambali stated this last Wednesday (May 4, 2016) while addressing the members of the University's Students' Union Central Executive Committee, who visited him in his office to present samples of the starter pack for freshers and sweat shirt for old students to him.
The items were produced by the Vice- Chancellor for his support student leaders as part of their social towards the success of the just responsibility to the generality of the concluded Students' Union Week. s t u d e n t s o f t h e U n i v e r s i t y. In his own remarks, the Dean of Student Affairs, Prof. A. Talabi, The Vice-Chancellor also applauded saluted the open-door policy adopted the improvement in the starter pack, by the Vice- Chancellor. He also which was an inherited idea from the previous administration of the urged other universities “to learn from the better-by-far system”. Students' Union. Other dignitaries at the event Presenting the items to the included the Sub-Dean of Student Vice-Chancellor, the Students' Union Affairs, Dr. A. Yusuf, the Deputy President, Mr. Alao Idris, expressed Registrar, Student Affairs, Mrs K. W. appreciation to Prof. Ambali for his Salee and the Protocol Officer to the gesture towards students of the Vice-Chancellor, Mr. Olatunde institution. The student leader also Agboola . promised to keep the good work going without limit. He also appreciated the
Fawole seeks better deal for female farmers By Fatima Abubakre
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n order to enhance agricultural productivity and profitability, guarantee food security and reduce poverty in the country, a lecturer in the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ilorin, Dr. (Mrs.) Oluyemisi Fawole, has canvassed the development of gender specific policies and services that are designed for women within the agricultural value chains. Dr. Fawole, who is also the Ag. Head of the Department of Agronomy, made this submission last Wednesday (May 4, 2016) at the African Women in Agricultural Research and Development (AWARD) Role Modelling Event, which took place at the Faculty of Agriculture Lecture Theatre. Presenting a seminar paper titled “Advancing Women in Agriculture: Roles of Education and Research”, the Agronomist observed that despite the significant roles and contributions of women in the agricultural sector, they are confronted with socio-economic constraints that limit their productivity. These constraints, according to her, include limited access to the essential elements of farming, resources and credit, information and technology, education and training, among others. Dr. Fawole pointed out that although “women constitute a large portion of the farming population, women's possibilities in agriculture
are hindered by formal and traditional rules. Existing evidence from smallscale studies across the continent documents the numerous disadvantages that women face in accessing the same resources, training, markets and opportunities as men.” All of these, she noted, had negative effects on agricultural productivity. In order to address these disparities, the 2015 AWARD Fellow then advocated the application of education and gender responsive research to tackle “the barriers that hold back the productivity of female farmers which could enhance gender equality and usher in a broader economic growth.” “Education will make women more equipped and able to compete with men to take advantage of the better income-earning opportunities”, she stressed, adding that, “to increase the productivity of female farmers, gender responsive research that goes beyond the farming system and examines the entire food value chain is required.” Earlier in his opening remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. AbdulGaniyu Ambali (OON), who was represented on the occasion by t h e D e p u t y Vi c e - C h a n c e l l o r, R e s e a r c h , Te c h n o l o g y a n d Innovation, Prof. Gabriel Olatunji, expressed delight at the substantial number of female academics within the University, saying the event was
put up to show “to the world what women can do and do better.” According to him, “the African agricultural sector must increase its responsiveness to the needs and contributions of women if it is to be effective and sustainable. It is believed that cultivation of high potential African women scientists will prove vital in addressing urgent needs of smallholder farmers and that solutions will be achieved with the full scientific community men and women working together. The University management looks forward to many more AWARD Fellows from among the female academic staff seated here today.” In his remarks, the Director, Academic Planning Unit, Prof. O.A. Omotesho said, “AWARD is a game changer in empowering African women scientists to accelerate agricultural development in the continent”, adding that, “today in the Faculty of Agriculture, we have made significant progress in terms of having about 30 female academic staff; for a long time, it was just one or two.” “AWARD is out to change the situation and empower women to contribute more to the process of agricultural development in Africa…I want us to be able to raise many more AWARD fellows from among the many academic staff that we have here. It is a very competitive process but we can do it”, he said.
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Unilorin Bulletin
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Drive ICT revolution, Abimbola tells science teachers By Mustafa Abubakar and Ishaq Babatunde
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Professor of Science Education at the University of Ilorin, Isaac Olakanmi Abimbola, has called on Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) teachers to champion the Information, Communication Technology (ICT) revolution in the country. Prof. Abimbola made the call last Thursday (May 5, 2016) while nd p0resenting a paper at the 2 Annual Conference of the Science Teachers' Association of Nigeria (STAN), Kwara State Branch, held at the College of Education, Ilorin. In his lecture, entitled “The role of Information, Communication Technology (ICT) in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Education", the Keynote Speaker advised STEM teachers and educators to incorporate ICT knowledge and Skills in all their instructions and demonstrate the willingness to learn continuously with their students. Professor Abimbola, who is a former Dean of Education, University of Ilorin, also urged STEM teachers to endeavour to be ahead of their students so as to be able to impact meaningfully and tremendously on them. He urged science teachers in the country to own and use ICT gadgets and ensure that all members of their family are computer literate and savvy. According to him, “In this st 21 century, to be a normal living human being, STEM teachers and teacher educators must possess and st utilise the 21 century knowledge and skills, which include civic l i t e r a c y, g l o b a l a w a r e n e s s , environmental literacy, information literacy, technological literacy, media literacy, critical learning and innovation skills, critical thinking and problem solving, creativity and innovation, leadership and responsibility, productivity and
Prof. Abimbola presenting his paper at the STAN Conference last Thursday accountability, social and cross- driven subjects that will give birth to cultural skills”. the country's sustainable economic Prof. Abimbola also tasked independence. STEM teachers to be conversant with Also in his address, the the relevant ICT policies as Provost of the College of Education, enunciated in the National ICT and Ilorin, Dr Isiaka Opobiyi, said that the Innovation Policy, the National Conference could not have come at a Policy on Education, UNESCO ICT better time than now when the society Guidelines and Frameworks for relies absolutely on science and Teachers and the 21 s t century technology to break through. standards for students and teachers. In her welcome address, the He said, “As much as Chairperson of STAN, Kwara State possible, STEM teachers should Branch, Prof. Esther Omosewo, ensure that they are ahead of their explained that effective teaching of students concerning ICT literacy and Science subjects is the only panacea appropriately positioned to champion that can propel Nigeria to realise her the ICT revolution in Nigeria starting dream of achieving sustainable with themselves and their students development. with predictable multiplier effects in The conference was climaxed the Nigerian society”. with the presentation of awards to The don called for the some Nigerians who have made their inclusion of ICT knowledge and skills marks in their various chosen careers in the curricula of all subjects taught under science and technology. by Science teachers and educators, in Among the awardees were the addition to what students are taught in Keynote Speaker, Professor Isaac their ICT courses. Abimbola; the immediate past Dean Declaring the conference of Education, University of Ilorin, open, the Kwara State Commissioner Prof. A. S. Olorundare; and Prof. R. for Tertiary Education, Science and D . O l a r i n o y e o f L a n d m a r k Technology, Dr Amina Ahmed, University, Omu-Aran. enjoined Science teachers in the country to think outside the box and prioritise the teaching of Science-
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MONEY M ATTERS
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UNILORIN WEEKLY FINANCIAL DIGEST th
SUMMARY OF RECEIPTS AND PAYMENT FOR THE PERIOD 29th April to 5 May, 2016
RECEIPTS Academic Gown Others Order of Proceeding Fitness Scroll Student I.D. Card Income from Consultant Overpayment Staff I.D. Card Admin Payslip Clinical Registration Certificate Change of Course Form Verification of Result Transcript Refund Late Screening Salary for the month of April 2016 Tender fees Contractor Registration Total Receipts for the period PAYMENTS: PAYMENT TO CONTRACTORS/SUPPLIERS: Fasman Nig Enterprises Laying of cable at University Auditorium Fasman Nig Enterprises Clearing of the Surrounding of overhead Electric Poles from Unilorin Primary School Junction to Veterinary Allied Cost Engineers Consultancy fees Rindex Associates Consultancy fees Bal Engineering Ltd Consultancy fees Bal Engineering Ltd Consultancy fees Bal Engineering Ltd Consultancy fees Omate Nigeria Enterprises Supply of Office Furniture & Equipment OTHER PAYMENTS: Purchase Advances Various Various DTA, Imprest, Refund E.T.C Nigerian Legion Ex-Servicemen Salary for April 2016 University of Ilorin Staff Salary for April 2016 Total TSA Charges TOTAL PAYMENTS FOR THE PERIOD Signed A.S. YUSUF, FCA Bursar
AMOUNT 6,000.00 1,500.00 9,500.00 6,000.00 6,000.00 4,000.00 1,000.00 500.00 2,700.00 3,500.00 2,100.00 7,000.00 2,500.00 578,000.00 5,500.00 88,000.00 4,448,976.67 9,000.00 549,854,709.66 50,000.00 32,000.00 "555,118,486.33
158,870.00 57,000.00 165,874.18 491,352.14 155,277.73 11-15 Sept 2016
364,187.67 288,096.95 884,000.00 3,118,800.00 2,485,500.00 3,450,000.00 604,224,658.38 6,510.00 "615,850,127.05
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TO YOU! S/N 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24. 25. 26. 27.
Name Bogunjoko, Jacob A. Babalola, Olasunkanmi M. Okolo, Peter Abubakar, Abdullahi S . Dopamu, Olusegun A. Gangaramani, Vikram G . Adeniyi Rufai, Funmi F. Salami, Musa A. Adejumo, Marchchgaret I. Jaiyeola, Monisola M. Barnabas, Eche Kolawole, Yinka Taiwo, Omotayo A . Abdullahi, Ibrahim B. Lawal, Raheem A. Fakomogbon, Michael A. Adebayo, Fatimoh A. Sayuti, Abdulateef B. RaMarchch, Krishnamurthy Yusuff, Taliat A . Alabi, Folusho G. Dere, Munirudeen A. Ofoegbu, Chima K. P. Ojuade, Taofeer A . Lafenwa Balogun, F.B. Aliyu, Beatrice M. Ologele, Ibrahim
Office/Unit/Department/Faculty Security Division Surgery Works: Works/Maintenance Office English Registry Health Services Registry Central Admin: Office Health Services Registry Security Division Centre for Affi liated Institutions Mathematics Finance Arts Education Educational Technology Health Services Registry Plant Biology Physical Planning Unit Works: Works/Maintenance Office Bursary Surgery Bursary Web Support Services Bursary Health Promotion & Environmental Health Education
Date of Birth 8th May 8th May 9th May 9th May 9th May 9th May 9th May 10th May 10th May 10th May 10th May 10th May 10th May 10th May 12th May 12th May 12th May 12th May 12th May 13th May 13th May 14th May 14th May 14th May 14th May 14th May 14th May
GOOD GRAMMAR Don’t say/write: Say/write: Don’t say/write: Say/write:
I want to barb my hair. I want to have a haircut. Her comments only added petrol to the fire. Her comments only added fuel to the flames.
Hale &
Hearty
Dry Eyes? If you suffer from dry eyes, up your seafood intake. Sea foods like salmon, sardines, and mackerel contain omega-3 fatty acids, which the body uses to produce tears, among other things. Research suggests that people who consume higher amounts of these fats are less likely to have dry eyes.
LAUGH LINES A husband comes home from Church, greets his wife, lifts her up and carries her around the house. The wife is so surprised and excited! She asked with smiles, “Did the Pastor preach on being romantic today?” Out of breath the husband replies, “No, he said we must carry our burdens…”
UNIVERSITY of ILORIN
UNIL RIN IN THE NEWS UNIVERSITY of ILORIN
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Ø In an opinion article, a public affairs commentator, Olarewaju Adebayo, has reflected on the 16 years uninterrupted academic calendar enjoyed by the University of Ilorin. (“University of Ilorin on my mind”, Leadership, Saturday,April 30, 2016, p.67) Ø The Chief Medical Director, University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (UITH), Prof. Abdulwaheed Olatinwo, has disclosed that the hospital has successfully carried out Open Heart Surgeries (OHS) on three patients . (“UITH Performs Three Open Heart Surgeries”, The Guardian, Sunday, April 30, 2016, p.6; See also, “UITH, India hospital complete fresh round of open heart surgery”, Daily Sun, Monday, May 2, 2016, p.12; “We'll make UITH one stop heart facility in Africa, says CMD”, Thisday, Thursday, May 5, 2016, p.43) Ø While briefing newsmen following the attempt by some external members of ASUU to disrupt the peace of the University of Ilorin, the Vice Chancellor of the institution, Prof. AbdulGaniyu Ambali, has maintained that his administration would not accept any approach that could truncate the institution’s 16 years of uninterrupted academic calendar. (“UNILORIN shuns ASUU, says varsity cannot compromise peaceful status”, Nigerian Pilot, Wednesday, May 4, 2016, p.21) Ø While delivering his address at the 3rd Biennial National Conference of the Centre for Ilorin Studies, University of Ilorin, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. AbdulGaniyu Ambali, has urged the Federal Government to incorporate History and Religious studies in secondary school curricula as compulsory subjects. (“How wrong interpretation of religion birthed insurgency-Unilorin VC”, The Herald, Wednesday, May 4, 2016, pp.1-2) Ø In an interview with newsmen, the Dean, Postgraduate School, University of Ilorin, Prof. Badmas Lanre Yusuf, has urged Nigerians to be patient with the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari, while appealing to the President to monitor all activities in the country with eagle eye. (“Why Buhari should caution state govs - Don”, The Herald, Wednesday, May 4, 2016, p.4; See also, “Buhari must clear augean stables before objective assessment-Prof. Yusuf”, The Herald, Wednesday, May 4, 2016, p.15) Ø A news magazine has featured a special review on the giant strides recorded by the University of Ilorin. (“UNILORIN: Certainly Better by Far”, Time Nigeria Magazine, May, 2016, pp.25, 26-27; See also, “Ambali’s giant strides at University of Ilorin”, Time Nigeria Magazine, May, 2016, pp.27,
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28, 29, 30-31) In an exclusive interview with the editorial team of Time Nigeria Magazine, the Vice-Chancellor, of the University of Ilorin, Prof. AbdulGaniyu Ambali, has reflected on the gains of his administration, the challenges as well as the prospects. (“We will impact positively on society-Unilorin VC”, Time Nigeria Magazine, May, 2016, pp.32, 33-34) In his remarks at the 32nd professional initiation of the Batch 'B' 2016 medical graduates of the University of Ilorin, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. AbdulGaniyu Ambali, has disclosed that as tough as the medical profession is, the country still needs more medical doctors. (“Unilorin inducts 48 new medical doctors”, Leadership, Wednesday, May 4, 2016, p.25; See also, “UNILORIN turns out 48 new medical doctors”, Nigerian Tribune, Thursday, May 5, 2016, p.20; “Unilorin inducts 48 medical graduates”, Nigerian Pilot, Thursday, May 5, 2016, p.41) Aphotograph of the Vice-Chancellor, University of Ilorin, Prof. AbdulGaniyu Ambali his Kwara State University counterpart, Prof. Abdulrasheed Na'Allah and a one-time Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Oba Abdulraheem, taken at a wedding ceremony in Ilorin has been published. (National Pilot, Thursday, May 5, 2016, p.20) Two University of Ilorin Dons, Prof. B. L. Adeleke and Prof. (Mrs.) M. T. Bakare-Odunlola were admitted as Fellows of the Science Association of Nigeria (SAN), at the just concluded 2016 Annual National Conference and the Golden Jubilee of the association recently held inAbuja. (“Scientists meet in Abuja”, Daily Trust, Thursday, May 5, 2016, p.35) In a newspaper interview, the Chairman of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) University of Ilorin Chapter, Dr. Usman AbdulRaheem, and a factional chairman of the union, Dr. Kayode Afolayan have both commented on the controversy surrounding thestatus of the chapter since its suspension by the national body of the union. (“UNILORIN ASUU: One union, two chairmen”, Nigerian Tribune, Thursday, May 5, 2016, p.21) In an interview with newsmen, the Chief Medical Director, University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, Prof. Abdulwaheed Olatinwo, has commented on the outbreak of Lassa fever, medical tourism, and incessant strike among other things. (“Strike in the Health sector is a crime against humanity, says Olatinwo”, Thisday, Thursday, May 5, 2016, p.42)
NOTICE
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Unilorin Bulletin
Centre for Research Development and In-House Training (CREDIT) Invitation to the 2017-2018 Interactive Workshop on Fulbright Scholarship Programme he Director of CREDIT, Prof. B. Workshop scheduled to hold as S. Alabi, cordially invites the follows: Signed e n t i r e a c a d e m i c c o m m u n i t y, Date: Monday, 9th May, 2016 Prof Y. O. Imam, especially applicants for Fulbright Research Manager (Humanities Scholarship Programme for the Venue: UniversityAuditorium. Cluster) For Director, CREDIT 2017-2018 to an Interactive Time: 10.00am
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Intra-Africa academic mobility scheme: Education, Audio visual and Culture Executive Agency, EU
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he Education, Audiovisual and Culture Executive Agency invites applications for its intra-Africa academic mobility scheme. This programme aims to improve the skills and competences of students and staff through enhanced intra-African mobility and to promote sustainable development and ultimately contribute to poverty reduction by increasing the availability of trained and highly qualified professional manpower in Africa. More specifically this call aims to: contribute to the improvement of the quality of higher education through the promotion of internationalisation and harmonisation of programmes
and curricula within participating institutions; enable students, academics and staff to benefit linguistically, culturally and professionally from the experience gained in the context of mobility to anotherAfrican country. Consortium of a minimum of four and a maximum of six African HEIs and one technical partner from the EU may apply. Eligible applicants and partners are HEIs registered in Africa that provide courses at postgraduate level leading to a qualification recognised by the competent authorities in their own country. The technical partner has to be an HEI from one of the EU member states having been awarded
an Erasmus charter for higher education. Projects must take place in one of the eligible countries covered by this call and last between 54 and 60 months. The overall indicative budget for this call is €9.9 million. Grants are worth between €1m and €1.5m each. Deadline: June 15, 2016 Email: eacea-intraafrica-intraac... For further details visit: https://eacea.ec.europa.eu/intraafrica/funding/intra-africaacademic-mobility-scheme-2016_en Signed Prof Y. O. Imam, Research Manager (Humanities Cluster)
Open Ph.D Thesis Defence S/No 1.
Name OMOTOSHO, Mohammed Murtala
Faculty/Depart ment Agricultural Economics and Farm Management
Title “Economic Analysis of Urea Deep Placement Technology Usage in Rice Production in Kano and Niger States, Nigeria”.
Date & Time Friday, 13 th May, 2016
Venue Faculty of Agriculture Board Room
9.00am
2014 Staff Development Award (TETFund) Intervention Recipient Mrs. A. M. Ahmed El-Imam
Programme Ph. D
Department Microbiology
Institution where tenable University of Nottingham, United Kingdom.
www.unilorin.edu.ng
May 9, 2016
The with the communicator
Dr.L.A.Azeez
Nauseating hypocrisy
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ftentimes, I get confounded by the prevalence of nauseating hypocrisy among the majority of people in our clime. Given the abhorrence of this moral deficiency in both Islamic and Christian moral codes, I often wonder if a good number of us will qualify for the divine salvation hereafter without an amnesty.Amajority of us contrive a false appearance of virtue while we conceal our real self. More often, a majority of us find it easier to choose appearance over reality. As a result of what psychologists consider as cognitive biases and distortions, we effortlessly perceive and condemn faults in others while we fail to perceive and condemn our own faults and frailties. In other words, we might be sometimes fairly accurate in our perception of others, but we are normally deliberately inaccurate in the perception of ourselves. In our self-serving bias, we think highly of ourselves, thinking that we are the best, and that we only can do things the best way. Of course, it is easier to put up a reputation for fairness than to be fair. But I do wonder oftentimes why the majority of human beings are inclined to play the game of life in a Machiavellian way – survival at all costs. In our inclination for self-deception, we fail to get real evidence, rather than fabrications, for our decision or position, while we even fail much more to get better evidence for opposing position or decision. In our Machiavellian nature, it is always easy for us to effortlessly justify our selfish acts, with pseudo evidence, while we maintain the deceptive posture or illusion that we are better than others. The above was a series of deep meditation that were inspired in me by the dialogue/ conversations among three dons in a University I visited recently after the ugly incidence of two weeks ago that almost disrupted the peace on our campus. The conversations go thus: Don A: I learnt that National ASUU was successful in conducting an election that has now brought in a much more vibrantASUU executive at the University of Ilorin Don B: For where? The University lecturers resisted what they considered as an attempt to impose some individuals on them. Don C: Are you sure the resistance was not orchestrated by the UniversityAdministration? Don B: Not all. I even learnt that if not for the University Administration that in its magnanimity permitted the election to hold, there would have been a violent brawl on the campus on that day. I learnt that the University Vice-Chancellor is a paragon of simplicity and humility. While he was clearly in support of integration, he did not want the kind of imposition that was intended that day- imposition that was aimed at disrupting the peace of the University Don A: But I learnt that it is the same VC that the individuals that were elected that day as the new executive wanted to tackle. They claimed that they could make him perform better through a more radical unionism. Don B: I think they got it wrong. To me, we must be honest with ourselves. If these guys wanted to take back the leadership of the union at the University, it should not be for a fabricated reason of non- performance on the part of at least the last two administrations in the University. Unfortunately, the guys still
believe in the obsolete model of struggle that is causing a lot of havoc to the stability of other universities in Nigeria. What is in vogue now, and which must be encouraged, is intellectual engagement, rather than taking pride in confrontations. Don A: I even learnt that the University Administration is not averse to such radical unionism only that the University has successfully laid a structure for achieving persistently a fairly acceptable level of welfarism both for students and staff, which makes radical agitations unnecessary at the University Don C: How do you mean it? A lot of staff of the University complains silently about poor welfarism, and this is what the new guys think they can fight against. Don B: I still want to say it that the new guys and the staff you said that are complaining silently are getting it wrong. I don't think they can have it better in any other University. Do you know that it is the only University that has the most reliable, regular and consistent process for promoting or appointing Professors? At the University, you are promoted to Professor Cadre once you adequately satisfy the strident but attainable requirements. This is a University where you don't need to visit any religious marauders when you papers are sent out for assessment because you are sure that the VC is not hiding the papers in his office. Then, you all know that many universities have been paying half or 90% of their staff salaries since January this year because they have not been getting enough from the Government. The same VC the guys are saying is not performing to their desired level has been paying his staff's full salaries. How he has been doing this is a myth to me, but it is unfair if his staff do not appreciate this because I know how we feel here with the non- payment of our full salaries. Don C: But I don't think welfarism ends with the payment of salary and promotion as at when due. It also entails noninfringement of certain rights. Don B: What right are you talking about? What kind of right exists beside your fulfillment in getting to the top of your career as at when due, and paying your salary as at when due. And for students, they do not have any cause to disrupt the peace in the University because they are given minimum comfort they need to study. Unlike in many universities where students go on rampage because there is no water or light on campus, at the University of Ilorin, the Administration makes sure such essentials are not out of supply for too long. This is why the University has been able to achieve rare persistent stability for more than 15 years Don C: I think this is what the University is jealously trying to protect by not allowing radical unionism on the campus Don B: But is that not worthy of being guided much more jealously? To me, it really worth the pains. We are all just deceiving ourselves. Inside us, we want the University to sustain the stability so that we can have a place we can send our own children to for undisrupted studies although we pretend as if the University is a non-conformist. Don C: But there is a difference between academic stability and academic excellence Don B: My good brother, let us leave the intellectual discussion on that for some other days.
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