Philanthropist Ejide expands education footprint with LAUTECH Psychology Lab donation
By Maureen Aguta
Philanthropist and community leader, Alhaji Monsur Ayoade Ejide, has strengthened his growing intervention in Nigeria’s education sector with the donation of multi-million naira equipment to the Psychology Department of Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), in a move aimed at boosting research capacity and practical learning.
The intervention, unveiled at a formal presentation ceremony in Ogbomoso, reflects a strategic push to enhance academic infrastructure and deepen research output within tertiary institutions, particularly in specialised fields such as psychology.
Speaking at the event, Ejide said the donation was part of a deliberate commitment to advancing quality education and empowering students through improved learning environments. He emphasised that functional laboratories remain critical to bridging the gap between theoretical instruction and real-world application.
“This intervention is focused on strengthening academic excellence and human capital development. By equipping this laboratory, we are creating opportunities for both students and faculty to expand the frontiers of research and innovation,” he stated.
He further signalled his intention to sustain support for the institution, noting that similar interventions could be extended to other departments as part of a broader vision to support institutional growth.
Vice Chancellor of LAUTECH, Professor Razaq Olatunde Rom Kalilu, described the donation as both timely and impactful, stressing that the equipment would significantly enhance teaching quality and research capabilities within the department.
According to him, “This contribution will not only improve our training facilities but also strengthen our research output, positioning the department to better meet contemporary academic and societal needs.”
Also present at the ceremony were the Head of Department, Dr. Olufunmilayo Adedoyin Oyinlola, the Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, Professor Frank Ebijuwa, alongside other academic and institutional stakeholders.
Observers within academic and development circles say Ejide’s sustained interventions underscore a growing role of private philanthropy in addressing infrastructure deficits and capacity challenges confronting Nigeria’s higher education system.
His latest donation builds on an earlier intervention at the university, where he funded a multimillion-naira bakery facility designed to promote skills acquisition and entrepreneurship among students—further cementing his reputation as a key contributor to education-driven development.