The Vice-Chancellor, Federal University of Technology, Akure, Prof. Adebiyi Daramola, has urged alumni of universities to contribute to the development of their alma maters.
Daramola, who made the call while receiving the newly elected leadership of the alumni association of the university in his office, noted that government could not solve education problems alone.
According to him, no university can solve its problems alone without carrying along all its stakeholders.
He, therefore, urged university authorities to maintain good relationship with their students, saying such rapport brings mutual respect and benefits.
He said, “We have changed the old orientation towards students. We now emphasise and ensure that students are treated like younger colleagues because they are potential professors and leaders of tomorrow. The fact is that within years, they will surpass what we have attained as professors.
“Therefore, we do not maltreat them. We build good sustainable interpersonal relationship.
“Be objective in your operations. Avoid sentiments and politicking. Expand your operation to attract more members. FUTA products are spread all over the world, engage them and we promise you our utmost support and encouragement.”
The new President of the association, Mr. Akin Aina, who thanked the vice-chancellor and his management team for supporting the group, promised to join in making FUTA the best brand.
Aina said, “We share in your vision in making FUTA the best and taking it to the market place. We are ready to collaborate with FUTA to take the institution to the market locally and globally. Our members are spread all over the world and we are going to aggressively mobilise our members to make FUTA the best. This administration will try to transform the association. All we need is your continuous support.”