Dr Kayode Fayemi’s government in Ekiti State has expressed readiness to partner with Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti in the area of entrepreneurial development in order to boost its Knowledge Economy agenda.
The State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi expressed this readiness during an appreciation visit to the founder of the University, Aare Afe Babalola, SAN, during the week in Ado-Ekiti.
Fayemi who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Hon Biodun Omoleye hailed the founder of ABUAD and commended him for sustaining the existing relationship between the government and the institution, describing it as” a model in town and gown relationship”.
Hon Omoleye who lauded the institution for its various achievements said the various feats recorded by ABUAD has further placed Ekiti on the global map of academic excellence.
He described the vision of the founder of the institution, Are Afe Babalola as enviable, adding that the school has become a reference point not only in Africa but also other parts of the world.
“In going forward we would also want to partner with you in the area of entrepreneurial development. We have noticed the giant strides that your institution is making to impact young people’s lives, this days you want to produce graduates that are all-rounder not only in academics but in skill acquisition and this is the kind of skill acquisition that I am seeing in the 21st century properly define entrepreneurship package”.
“This school is reputed for excellence and we are proud that this school is cited in Ekiti state. We are particularly honoured by the news across the globe about the several breakthroughs from this university. The school has become a reference point not only in Africa but in the entire world. The vision and mission of the founder is enviable and there are lot of legacies to be appreciated”, he said.
Fayemi said the state government would explore other areas of partnership between the varsity and the state.
“We believe the establishment of a Knowledge Academy will enhance the relevance of ABUAD and other relevant academic institutions in Ekiti state. We are also committed to bringing about the cargo airport that we are constructing. We believe this will further help your university.
Responding, the founder who was represented by the Vice Chancellor,
Prof. Elisabeta Smaranda Olarinde, described Ekiti state as the land of fame which has been brought on a higher pedestal by the institution and with the cooperation of the state government.
“We cannot do it alone, as you have highlighted some of the areas of cooperation we are very delighted and I want to let you know that we have also hallmarked more areas where we can do more.
She assured that the institution is ready to cooperate with the government in whatever area the government is seeking for partnership.
Packaged by Emmanuel Adeniran
