A former Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Alh. Ali Olanusi, has hailed Sam Maris University (SMU), Supare-Akoko for living up to its vision to distinguish itself in high academic standards and to make university education accessible not only to young school leavers from rich homes but also low income earners.
The Octogenarian, fascinated by the rapid infrastructural and academic development of the fledgling institution, extolled the virtues of the Founder of the University, Mr. Sam T. Ologunorisa, SAN for his visionary contributions to the development of tertiary education in Nigeria and commended Management for vigorously pursuing the Mandate of the institution.
As part of his contributions to the infrastructural development of the University, and as an Elder Statesman, the Octogenarian resolved to donate a 150-Room Capacity Ultramodern Hostel to the University in memory of his late wife, Chief Mrs. Bejide Olanusi.
The Elder Statesman also acknowledged the relentless efforts of the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Francis Gbore for steering the ship of the institution in the right direction.
He applauded other Principal Officers of the University for working in synergy with the Vice-Chancellor and commitment to nurturing the first private University in Akoko Land.
While surveying the proposed Site for the construction of the ultramodern hostel on the University campus at Km 2 along Etioro-Afaa Road, Olanusi said: “I am overwhelmed by the quality of buildings on this Campus. The laboratories and classrooms are top-notch for rigorous activities and research. I wish to assure you that God being on my side, the 150-Room hostel building I am donating will be of the highest quality. I am here with my Site Engineer. We are going to look at the nitty-gritty, embark on preconstruction activities and site preparations, and mobilise to site as soon as the rain recesses within the next couple of weeks.”
“Judging by what I have seen and briefings received, this is a well-situated University for scholarship and total development of our young school leavers as graduates imbued with knowledge and entrepreneurship. The tuition fees are affordable for everyone and payment method is flexible. I encourage parents and guardians to bring their children and wards here.”
Expressing appreciation, Prof. Gbore, applauded the former Deputy Governor for his support and development of the University.
He noted that Alh. Olanusi is an Elder Statesman whose contributions traversed various sectors of the Nigerian economy including the development of education.
He expressed optimism that the Hostel project will be completed in record time and prayed God grants the Octogenarian sound health and long life.