UNILAG Leans on Private Support to Boost Learning Infrastructure
UNILAG Leans on Private Support to Boost Learning Infrastructure
The University of Lagos has renewed its call for stronger private sector partnerships and philanthropic support as a pathway to sustaining quality education, following the inauguration of newly upgraded facilities in its Faculty of Education.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the institution unveiled a refurbished Health Education Resource Room, two upgraded lecture halls, and enhanced learning amenities designed to improve teaching and research outcomes.
Representing the Vice-Chancellor, Folasade Ogunsola, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Management Services), Muyiwa Falaiye, described infrastructure development as a critical pillar of the university’s long-term 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 warned that dwindling government funding and increasing infrastructural needs have made external support no longer optional but essential.
“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 added.
Falaiye commended donor Marvelous Akinola, whose endowment made the project possible, as well as Aaron Akinloye of the Department of Human Kinetics and Health Education for facilitating 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 said.
He further assured stakeholders that the university would continue to accelerate infrastructure development across faculties, while urging proper maintenance of the facilities to ensure sustainability.
Also speaking, the Dean of the Faculty of Education, Simeon Oladipo, described the intervention as both 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 noted.
He emphasised that the quality of infrastructure directly influences academic performance and professional competence.
“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 growing importance of alumni and private donors in bridging funding gaps within 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 added.
The university maintained that the commissioning reflects a broader shift toward leveraging philanthropy to reposition Nigerian higher education for improved outcomes and global competitiveness.
“This initiative underscores the transformative impact of private support in enhancing infrastructure and enriching the academic environment,” the statement concluded.