The Vice Chancellor of Ekiti State University, Professor Edward Olanipekun, has announced that the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND) has doubled its research fund for the institution. He added that this increase will enable the university to engage in more problem-solving research.
The VC made this disclosure at the Faculty of Basic Medical Science’s first annual research fair day, themed “Pains and Gains of Research in Basic Medical Science.”
Represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic), Professor Joseph Ayodele, the VC encouraged university lecturers to form teams to access research funds.
“This administration will continue to support quality research,” he said. “TETFUND has increased arts research funds from N2 million to N4 million and science research funds from N2 million to N5 million. Let us form good research teams that will write strong proposals to access these funds.”
He emphasized that no university can be visible if research activities are not given the recognition they deserve.
The VC also expressed appreciation to the Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, for increasing the institution’s monthly subvention from N250 million to N400 million.
The Dean of the Faculty of Basic Medical Science, EKSU, Professor O.A Oseni, noted that as the faculty grows, the importance of research should not be neglected. He added that the department has been engaging in research to gain insight into the functionality and applications of new techniques.
The Guest Lecturer and Dean of the Faculty of Basic Medical Science, Federal University Oye, Professor Olusola Adeeyo, acknowledged the challenges in obtaining research funding, equipment, facilities, and government cooperation.
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Speaking, the Provost of the College of Medicine, EKSU, Professor Deji Ajayi, called on lecturers to maintain the faculty’s viability in terms of research for real-world problem-solving applications.
The Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee, Professor Olayinka Awoyinka, highlighted the faculty’s growth and development from three to five departments, with plans for further expansion. He also acknowledged the contributions of both academic and non-teaching staff who have consistently performed their duties with excellence.
Personalities awarded based on their responsibilities and excellence in the Faculty, coupled with students’ opinion poll, include: Prof. A. Afolayan – Award of Excellence as Pioneer Dean; Mrs. Helen Falade – Meritorious Service Award; Mr. M. A. Folawiyo – Most Effective Lecturer; and Mrs. Kehinde-Adegoke O – Most Effective Technologist / Instructor.
