On Tuesday 22nd September, 2015 the journey towards the actualization of our vision for LagosState University commenced with the inauguration of the Governing Council. Last week, I assented to a Bill amending the enabling law setting up the Institution. The amendment was fundamental as we believe it will address pertinent issues that have for long created discord within the academic community.
Today, we have taken another step forward with the inauguration of the 8th substantive Vice Chancellor of the Lagos State University, Professor Olanrewaju Adigun Fagbohun. This appointment was made after a thorough screening and selection process by the Governing Council. For this, I congratulate the Vice-Chancellor and the Governing Council in particular.
Over the past few years, LASU has had her fair share of successes and challenges. As a result, there is a lot of work required to propel the University to a world-class status.
As we set our sights on a more viable future, we must ask ourselves some important questions: How successful are our Students after they graduate from our institution? What is the University’s contribution to our Community, our Country and the World?
I urge that we all ponder over these questions and use today’s event as a rallying call for all to join hands to move LASU forward.
There is no gainsaying the fact that the new Vice Chancellor is assuming office at a challenging time in the history of the University. He has the task of rekindling hope and rebuilding confidence in the system after a protracted crisis. In this task, he requires the support and cooperation of all the stakeholders particularly the academic and non-academic staff as well as students, all of whom he must carry along to enthrone a peaceful atmosphere that will promote academic excellence.
As a government, our priority for educational institutions at the tertiary level, is for them to be able to nurture our students to become wealth creators and innovators capable of contributing positively to our communities and the nation.
The Lagos State Government is not just passionate about education but also committed to raising the standards, providing the necessary infrastructure and delivering outstanding results.
We are fully conscious of the unique position that LASU occupies, thus, the desire of all that the institution should re-focus on intellectual engagement. I am using this occasion to reiterate our commitment to excellence in all our tertiary institutions. The journey has just begun.
I know the Vice Chancellor will show leadership and brace up to the developmental and academic challenges of an emerging globally competitive citadel of learning.
I congratulate you and wish you a successful tenure.
Itesiwaju ilu Eko, lo je wa l’ogun!!!
Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode
Governor of Lagos State,
Alausa.