McPherson University, Ogun State, has expanded its infrastructure with the inauguration of two new facilities: a female hostel and a laboratory building extension.
This is as the varsity honoured the generosity of Foursquare Women International by officially naming the road leading to the female hostels after the organisation.
This is according to a statement released by the university’s Information and Public Relations Unit, Office of the Vice-Chancellor, and shared with PUNCH Online on Tuesday.
“The FWI, under the leadership of its President, Elder Gbemisola Ajayi, spearheaded the donation of the female hostel.
“She recounted how the project began with faith, as they approached the University’s Vice-Chancellor for a plot of land despite lacking financial resources at the time.
“Elder Ajayi expressed profound appreciation to the Vice-Chancellor for granting them the opportunity to bring their vision to reality,” the statement read.
The inauguration, held on Tuesday, was presided over by the General Overseer of the Foursquare Gospel Church in Nigeria, Rev. Sam Aboyeji, who is also a Visitor to the institution.
“The event marked another big step in the university’s efforts to provide better accommodation and learning facilities for its students,” it read.
The new female hostel is expected to alleviate accommodation challenges for female students.
“The addition of the laboratory building extension, strategically located near the College of Natural and Applied Sciences (COLNAS), further supports the McU’s commitment to improving academic and research facilities,” it added.
Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BoT), Kunle Allen, commended FWI members for their commitment to the university’s infrastructural development.
Acknowledging the increasing presence of female students on campus, he announced that “the road leading to the new hostel would be officially named after the FWI as a mark of appreciation.”
During the event, the National Secretary of the Foursquare Gospel Church, Revd. Samson Alawode, emphasised the significance of leaving a lasting legacy.
“He praised the FWI for their consistent efforts in supporting educational initiatives and encouraged them to continue their good work.
“He noted that while their efforts might not be targeted at the poor, they are essential in fostering academic excellence and spiritual growth,” it further read.
Vice-Chancellor of McPherson University, Prof. Francis Igbasan, thanked the FWI members for their generous donation.
“He particularly commended the leadership of Elder Gbemisola Ajayi, whose dedication and motivation played a pivotal role in bringing the project to fusion.
“According to him, great exploits become undeniable when people come together to support a shared vision,” it continued.
Igbasan further revealed that despite the addition of the new female hostel, the university still faces accommodation shortages.
“Over 200 students currently lack bed spaces,” he said, highlighting the urgent need for additional housing facilities.
He made a public appeal to other stakeholders and philanthropists to consider investing in student accommodations, assuring them that land is available for such projects.
The inauguration, according to the release, concluded with prayers and words of encouragement for the FWI and all those who contributed to making the project a success.
The new facilities, the varsity noted, are expected to positively impact student welfare, academic performance, and the overall growth of McPherson University.
