Caption: The Managing Director/CEO, ASR-Africa, Dr. Ubon Udoh (centre) flanked by the Vice-Chancellor, University of Lagos, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola (left), immediate past VC UNILAG, Prof. Oluwatoyin Ogundipe (right); and members of the university management at the groundbreaking ceremony of the UNILAG Abdul Samad Rabiu Laboratory Complex.
The University of Lagos, on Wednesday became the latest beneficiary of the Abdul Samad Rabiu Africa Initiative (ASR Africa), the philanthropic initiative of the Chairman of BUA Group, Abdul Samad Rabiu, which kicked off the construction of a N250m ultra-modern state-of-the-art laboratory complex at the institution’s campus.
The grant, according to a statement, is part of ASR Africa’s Tertiary Education Grants Scheme (TEGS) in support of higher institutions in the country aimed at delivering world-class sustainable education infrastructure under its Tertiary Education Grant Scheme (TEGs),
When completed, the complex will accommodate bioscience laboratory comprising two wings of laboratories accessible by a central reception, each of which will feature laboratory spaces, offices, modern workstations, six conveniences, kitchenettes alongside storage spaces.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony, Vice Chancellor of the university, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, while welcoming the ASR Africa team expressed satisfaction with the level of support received thus far from its Chairman and the BUA Group. Through this partnership, she said the university envisions a transformative impact beyond just a space for research.
The project, she believes, would serve as a hub where the brightest minds can collaborate, innovate, and discover..
According to the VC, “For me today is historic. This laboratory will attract global partnerships, enhance academic programs, and offer young scholars the resources to excel on a global stage.”
Responding, Managing Director of ASR Africa, Dr. Ubon Udoh, applauded the university’s outstanding leadership, partnership and dedication to this project, stressing that the “groundbreaking marks a significant step in our shared vision to advance research and innovation in Nigeria. ASR Africa’s commitment to education and sustainable development is rooted in our belief that empowering institutions like the University of Lagos is key to unlocking Nigeria’s potential and by large contributing to Africa’s growth.”
ASR Africa, he stressed, is proud to be part of this journey with the University of Lagos, adding that together, both parties will build a sustainable foundation for future generations, ensuring that they have the access to the facilities and the platform to lead Africa’s transformation.
