By our Reporter
In a move aimed at advancing STEM education and fostering technological innovation in Nigeria, the Mechanical Engineering Department of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife received a substantial investment as the Tosin Eniolorunda Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) laboratory was unveiled at the University’s campus.
The gesture which is in alignment with Moniepoint’s corporate social responsibility ethos is designed to significantly contribute to efforts aimed at bolstering Nigeria’s foundation in the very important area of science and technology while making subjects such as prototyping, design and engineering in general easier, participatory and enjoyable for students.
With the recent rise in the global tech industry, stakeholders aver that investment in STEM education will drive the socio-economic development of Africa and Nigeria, particularly. However, with a burgeoning population where over 60% of Africa’s population are still under 25, a recent survey shows that less than 25% of African students in secondary and tertiary institutions pursue STEM-related career fields.
At a ceremony to commission the facility, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Adebayo Bamire expressed his profound gratitude over the philanthropic donation by Moniepoint and Tosin Eniolorunda, co-founder of Moniepoint, who’s an alumnus of OAU’s Mechanical Engineering Department. He noted that many tertiary institutions across the country suffered from paucity of funds which in turn has led to infrastructural challenges, while encouraging other alumni to not only emulate this culture of giving back but also join hands to support worthy causes within the university.
“We are really very grateful for this laboratory considering that we are almost phasing out some of these things as a result of paucity of funds. This has to do with the yearnings which will also improve the livelihoods of our people, especially the students. So when we have an organization that has come in to meet our needs, we can only say thank you. This laboratory will help improve and enhance a lot of things within the University for students and staff and also drive collaboration between the academia and industry,” he said.
Tosin Eniolorunda, commenting on the donation, stated, “this newly revamped lab represents more than just an upgrade, it stands as part of a personal commitment to foster a generation of engineers and innovators who are not only skilled, but also inspired to think critically and creatively about real-world problems. A catalyst for innovation for the next generation of engineers and technologists who will drive Nigeria’s economic growth and advancement.
By investing in STEM education and providing access to platforms like this lab, we’re laying the critical rails for the emergence of leaders, innovators, and changemakers that Nigeria needs.”Furthermore he thanked the University community for its continued dedication to the pursuit of knowledge and innovation for learning and culture while adding that the future of engineering and technology in Nigeria is bright because of the young talents within the ivory tower.
The upgrade includes renovation of the existing laboratory space with cutting-edge facilities that include the provision of high-performance desktop computers and laptops, electronic board for interactive learning, laboratory furniture, supply and installation of sustainable power solutions and advanced cooling systems. These state-of-the-art resources will provide students with hands-on experience in the latest CAD/CAM technologies, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application in the field of mechanical engineering.
Dean, Faculty of Technology, Prof. Lasisi Umoru noted that the revamped facility will increase research capabilities and output in CAD/CAM technologies, improve graduates’ employability in the global job market, and serve as a model for STEM education facilities across Nigeria.
The commissioning ceremony which attracted dignitaries from within and outside the University included Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academics, Prof. M. Babalola, DVC, Administration – Prof. Adaramola, DVC Research, Innovation and Development, Prof. Akinyemi, Chairman, Committee of Deans, Prof Adesina, Chairman, Ceremonials Committee, Prof Adekola, Head of Department, Mechanical Engineering, Prof. Obayopo, Retired Prof of Mechanical Engineering, Prof. Adekoya, Chairman Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, Osun state chapter, Ademola Adesoji and Special Assistant to the Osun state governor on ICT, Sola Isola, Oyinlola Eniolorunda and Israel Eniolorunda as well as Head of Partnerships, Moniepoint Inc, Efemena Ogie, Employee Branding Lead, Gbemi Adekanmbi amongst others.