The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Prof. Folasade Ogunshola, has called for deeper collaboration between the university, its alumni, and industry partners to boost global competitiveness and strengthen the institution’s development agenda.

Speaking on Sunday night at the maiden Dinner with the Corporate World and Award Night of the UNILAG Alumni Association, Lagos State Branch, Ogunshola commended alumni for their unwavering contributions and long-term commitment to the university.

She stressed that no modern university can thrive in isolation, noting that meaningful partnerships with external stakeholders are essential for global relevance.

“Modern universities cannot thrive in isolation; it requires a symbiotic relationship to compete globally,” she said.

Prof. Ogunshola highlighted UNILAG’s recent achievements, including strengthened partnerships with international institutions and multilateral agencies, the prioritisation of innovation through the Entrepreneurship and Skills Development Centre, and ongoing infrastructural renewal projects aimed at improving learning, research, and residential experiences.

She also made a formal appeal to alumni and industry partners for endowments and scholarships to support academically disadvantaged students. She encouraged industries to collaborate by presenting real-world problems that could drive research and equip students with practical skills.

“We would like industry research partners to speak of problems to us, challenge us, help us, and let us show you what we can do,” she said.

In his welcome address, Comrade Owoeye Adedeji, Chairman of the UNILAG Alumni Association, Lagos State Branch, described the event as a celebration of shared values between “the gown and the town.” He emphasised that alumni contributions aim to bridge gaps in infrastructure, mentorship, internships, and innovation.

Dr. Akintoye Akindele, Chairman and CEO of Platform Capital and Special Guest of Honour, praised the alumni for their initiative and encouraged continued dedication to nation-building. He also highlighted his support for the UNILAG Business School through partnership and infrastructure development.

The Deputy Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mrs. Mojisola Meranda, who was also an awardee, commended the association for fostering collaboration between academia and the corporate world, pledging continued support for initiatives driving meaningful development in UNILAG and across Lagos State.

Other award recipients included Dr. Segun Oshundairo, Mr. Moyosore Adebanjo, Dr. Ayoola Oyeyemi, Dr. Olufemi Ogunsanya, Mr. Adigun Saheed, Mr. Yussuf Kelani, and several others.

The event underscored the critical role of alumni and industry engagement in building a future-ready, research-driven university capable of confronting national and global challenges.