Overview

This document is a speech delivered by Chief (Dr.) J. O. Sanusi, Chairman of the Endowment Fund Launching Committee, at the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) during the launch of a N2.6 billion Endowment Fund, coinciding with the 13th and 14th Convocation Ceremonies. The speech begins with greetings to dignitaries including President Olusegun Obasanjo, executive governors, ministers, traditional rulers, alumni, and others. Sanusi congratulates the Chancellor, Alhaji (Dr.) Isa Mustafa (Emir of Lafia), on his investiture and the new graduates. He highlights that Nigerian tertiary institutions have declined in international reputation due to inadequate funding and infrastructure, not because of inferior academic staff but due to lack of modern teaching and research facilities, especially in science-based programs. He notes that the government recognizes these problems but is constrained by insufficient financial resources, compounded by an inherited distressed economy and competing demands from other sectors like health and transportation. Reflecting on FUTA's establishment 20 years ago under President Shehu Shagari, he acknowledges the university's impact on national manpower development but regrets that the founding fathers' dreams remain unfulfilled due to economic challenges. The initiative aims to transform FUTA into a full-fledged university of technology and an internationally acclaimed centre of excellence in technological research. Sanusi solicits support from all present to achieve this goal.

Download