Prof Lilian Salami, Vice-Chancellor on Wednesday inaugurated a multi-million naira ultra-modern students recreation centre at the Ugbowo campus of the institution.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the edifice was donated by the University of Benin Alumni Association of North America (UBAANA).
The vice-chancellor said the new recreation centre, the first of its kind on the campus, would provide the students with a fantastic space to relax, socialise, and participate in various games and activities.
According to her, this will enhance the students’ hobbies and learning experiences.
“Initiatives like this from the Alumni Association foster a progressive and dependable network among alumni and students, ultimately promoting institutional growth and development.
“Once again, I thank UBAANA for their generosity and commitment to our university.
“I encourage the alumni community to continue collaborating in support of the university, creating a robust and positive network among alumni, staff, and students alike,” she said.
The vice-chancellor, whose tenure expires on Dec. 1, lauded the UBAANA for emerging as the flagship branch of the university’s alumni association.
She said the facility was a testament to the dedication and generosity of the alumni and commended the UBAANA for its tireless efforts in bringing this project to fruition.
“In recognition of these contributions, the Senate of the University has approved the conferral of an honourary doctoral degree in science on one of UBAANA’s past presidents, Dr. Kingsley Momodu.
“This honour is a small way for us to express our appreciation for your significant impact on the growth and development of your alma mater—please, continue your noble efforts,” she said.
[caption Front view of the students recreation centre by the University of Benin Alumni Association of North America (UBAANA)
Earlier, Mr Alex Eronmwon, the president of the alumni association, said the need for the centre was made in a request by the President of the Students Union in 2022.
“The students earnestly sought the establishment of a recreation centre at the Ekehuan campus to enhance their welfare and provide a space for relaxation and socialisation after their demanding academic activities.
“Their request was promptly fulfilled with the construction of a recreation centre at the Ekehuan campus, which was commissioned by the Vice Chancellor on Aug. 31, 2022.
“With the success and high patronage of the centre at the Ekehuan campus, the association recognised the need to replicate this initiative for the larger population of students at the Ugbowo campus by building a bigger and ultra-modern recreation centre for them,” he said.
The president commended the vice-chancellor for approving the choice of land and its location
According to him, the centre will provide students with an excellent opportunity to relax, socialise, and engage in various activities, ultimately enhancing their overall university experience.
“As we celebrate this milestone, we also reaffirm the values that our association cherishes – fostering a progressive and dependable network among alumni and students of the University of Benin.
“This is because today’s students are tomorrow’s alumni. Students who enjoy a positive university experience are more likely to contribute to the growth and development of the university once they graduate.
“Therefore, we strive to enhance our relationship with students through mentorship, support, and contributions to their positive university experience,” he said.
Responding, Israel Agboola, the students union president applauded the donor of the edifice, saying it would help to ease their stay on the campus. (NAN)
