OAU at 60: VC commissions renovated building, lecture theatres of Faculty of Social Sciences
…As Faculty Dean, Prof. Ogunjuyigbe, reveals rationale behind project
Abimbola Abatta, Osogbo
In continuation of the 60th anniversary of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), the institution, on Monday, officially commissioned the renovated building and two lecture theatres at the Faculty of Social Sciences.
The commissioning, which is coming 17 years after the Faculty building was last refurbished, was held at the Faculty Board Room.
While speaking at the commissioning, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Eyitope Ogunbodede commended the initiative, noting that the faculty is the first to complete and commission any renovation.
The Vice-Chancellor applauded the faculty staff, alumni and friends of the faculty while encouraging other faculties and well-meaning Nigerians to play significant roles in the 60th anniversary of the university.
Earlier in his address, the Dean, Faculty of Social Sciences, Professor Peter O. Ogunjuyigbe said the renovation was in tandem with his administration’s commitment to restoring the faculty to its original plan and improve its environmental ambience.
Professor Ogunjuyigbe, who noted that the faculty building was last renovated in 2004, said the project was part of his administration’s agenda to transform the faculty and provide decent environment for staff and students.
This was just as he noted that the project was targeted at complementing the efforts of the university management.
He disclosed that upon his confirmation as the Dean-elect of the faculty, a Project Coordinating Committee (PCC) was constituted and tasked to come up with plans to maintain and improve the Faculty.
According to him, “The PCC had 11 Terms of Reference to work with, including Fundraising for various projects to be undertaken in the Faculty, re-painting of the Faculty Building, electrification of the faculty building, renovation of two lecture theatres (SSLT I & II), and removal of junks & debris within and around the building, among others.”
He lauded the committee members, adding that their diligence and steadfastness played a huge role in ensuring the successes recorded in the faculty.
Professor Ogunjuyigbe further disclosed that over six million naira, donated by staff, students, alumni, and friends of the faculty, was expended on the project.
In his words, “The entire cost of the projects (Six Million, Sixteen Thousand and Three Hundred Naira (N6,016,300.00) only) was borne by the staff (including three (3) of our retired senior professors), students and some Faculty alumni and individuals who are friends of the Faculty.”
He appreciated the donors for their support and contributions, saying, “They exceeded our expectations and have sumptuously empowered us to make a huge difference despite the ravaging economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.”
