The Rector of D.S. Adegbenro ICT Polytechnic, Itori, Dr Goke Rauf, has called on alumni of tertiary institutions to actively collaborate with their alma maters to boost educational development, particularly in the face of dwindling funding for higher education across Africa.
Dr Rauf, who is also an alumnus of the Moshood Abiola Polytechnic (MAPOLY), made the call while delivering a paper titled “Sow and Reap; Strategic Alumni Collaboration as a Catalyst for Institutional Economic Advancement” during the MAPOLY Alumni Association national convention held on Saturday at the school’s premises in Abeokuta.
He stressed the need for strategic partnerships between institutions and their alumni networks, noting that such collaborations could play a crucial role in helping schools achieve their visions and missions.
“MAPOLY has shaped the lives and careers of thousands of graduates excelling across various fields.
“It is time for the alumni to give back meaningfully to ensure the continued growth of this great institution,” he said.
Dr Rauf emphasized the importance of exposing students to quality academic experiences, labour market readiness, and vibrant campus life that would foster lasting connections with the institution.
He also urged school authorities to regularly share their challenges and achievements with alumni to foster a stronger sense of community.
As a former lecturer at MAPOLY with years of service in different academic roles, Dr Rauf encouraged lecturers to build positive relationships with students, saying such efforts would endear alumni to the institution long after graduation.
In his address, the Rector of MAPOLY, Dr Architect, Koyejo Jolaoso who was honoured as a distinguished alumnus during the event, pledged to collaborate closely with the alumni association to reposition the polytechnic as a centre of excellence and a beacon of hope for future generations.
Meanwhile, veteran broadcaster and media executive, Alhaji Ayinde Soaga, has emerged as the 9th President of the MAPOLY Alumni Association.
Soaga, a pioneer graduate of Mass Communication from the 1985 set, was unanimously elected at the convention.
In his acceptance speech, Soaga promised an inclusive and result-driven administration.
He pledged to work hand-in-hand with the school management and alumni members to promote mentorship, innovation, and infrastructural development.
“Our first major project is the construction of a student hostel to support on-campus accommodation. We need the support of all alumni to elevate MAPOLY to greater heights,” he said.
Outgoing President, Pastor Ezekiel Obasanya, urged the new executive to finalise the ongoing constitutional amendment of the association.
He highlighted past projects by alumni and expressed optimism about the new leadership’s capacity to sustain the momentum of giving back.
In a goodwill message, the Chairman of Abeokuta North Local Government, Dr Lanre Oyegbola-Sodipo, lauded the alumni body for its commitment and encouraged broader participation for a more robust association.
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