Speaking at the 27th Convocation of Lagos State University (LASU), Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has assured the university’s students that they will benefit from the Federal Government’s student loan scheme.
In his speech, Sanwo-Olu emphasised his administration’s commitment to empowering students in state-owned tertiary institutions.
“This is my fourth convocation ceremony as a university visitor, and it is always a pleasure to share in the joy and anticipation of this significant day in the lives of so many people,” Sanwo-Olu stated.
He said that under his administration, the Lagos State Government aims to foster a generation of innovative thinkers and leaders who will drive sustainable development in Lagos State and beyond.
Sanwo-Olu acknowledged the financial investments required to maintain a world-class university and assured that his administration would fulfill its responsibilities as outlined in the T.H.E.M.E.S Plus strategic governance agenda, which prioritises Education and Technology.
He announced plans to collaborate with the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) to ensure that LASU students benefit from the new national student loan programme.
“We will work with NELFUND to ensure that the new national student loan programme is accessible to students of state-owned educational institutions, including LASU, as promised and without delay,” he said.
“We will ensure that no student or staff member of the university community is left behind, and as LASU thrives, so will the surrounding communities and residents.”
Sanwo-Olu stressed the importance of academic excellence, urging young people to pursue it with the same enthusiasm as they do artistic and sporting success.
He also congratulated Olaniyi Mubaraq Olawale, the best-graduating student for the 2022/2023 session, from the Accounting Education Department, who achieved a CGPA of 4.98.
To honour Olawale’s outstanding achievement, Sanwo-Olu announced a cash gift of N10 million.
“Congratulations to you, Olaniyi. This is a moment of great pride for all of us. I hope your achievement inspires others to strive for excellence,” Sanwo-Olu said.
In her convocation speech, LASU Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, celebrated the accomplishments of the graduates.
“Today’s ceremony marks the conclusion of the 27th Convocation and a symbolic moment of fulfilment and pride for our graduates, who have demonstrated exemplary character and academic prowess,” she said, stressing the achievements of 89 Doctors of Philosophy and 66 professional doctoral degree graduates.
