Chief Bisi Akande vows to forfeit remuneration as Chairman of UI Governing Board
…pledges donation of allowances to support students
Chief Bisi Akande, Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council at the University of Ibadan (UI), has made a noteworthy pledge to forgo any personal remuneration for his role and instead donate all allowances to support the university’s students.
In a recent memorandum to Mr. Ganiyu Oke Saliu, the Registrar and Secretary to the Governing Council, Chief Akande declared that he views his appointment as a call to national service and not an opportunity for personal financial gain. He has requested that any allowances due to him from attending Governing Council and committee meetings be redirected to create an endowment fund. This fund will offer annual scholarships or other awards to deserving undergraduate students pursuing degrees in Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
Chief Akande emphasized that these scholarships should cover the cost of accommodation and other official university fees, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder the academic progress of talented students. He suggested involving the Dean of Student Affairs or a similar academic officer in the selection process to maintain transparency and fairness.
To ensure the continuity of this scholarship initiative, Chief Akande has enlisted the support of the Adebisi Akande Foundation, an organization dedicated to philanthropic efforts. The foundation is prepared to provide financial support if the allowances from his position are ever discontinued, guaranteeing that student beneficiaries will not face financial uncertainty.
The memorandum has also been shared with the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Adebisi Akande Foundation to coordinate efforts for the smooth implementation of this initiative.
Chief Akande’s generous decision is anticipated to significantly benefit science students at the University of Ibadan, fostering the growth of future scientific leaders at Nigeria’s leading university.
