In recognition of the invaluable role of endowment in bridging the funding gap in institutions of higher learning, a seven-member Endowment Committee has been inaugurated for the Lighthouse University (LHU), Evbuobanosa, Edo State.
The inauguration ceremony performed by the Chancellor and Chairman, Board of Trustees of the University, Rev. Dr. Felix Omobude, saw his enjoining members of the committee to add value to the fortune of Light House University.
The committee has Engr. (Dr) O.S. Owieadolor as its Chairman, with
Rev. M. O. Jimoh Kadiri, Rev. (Prof.) David Osifo, Hon. Dns. (Mrs.) Irene Imilar, Rev. Jerry Ibekwe, Dns. (Mrs.) Mabel Ewansiha, and Deacon (Engr.) Smart Omoragbon as members.
Prof. Conrad Omonhinmin, is to serve as Adviser, while the Registrar of LHU, Mr. Olugbenga Olajide will serve as Secretary to the committee.
The inauguration the Chancellor stated marked an important step in the university’s growth, noting that institutions require financial stability as their true strength rests on a wider foundation that includes shared vision, intellectual career, ethical leadership, honour and loyalty, research partnership, volunteer services, mentorship network, community goodwill, amongst others.
Dr. Omobude who is also the Visitor to LHU, disclosed that universities thrive when they cultivate good relationships with scholars who dedicate their expertise among them who offer mentorship and advocacy, industry partners who share innovation, manufacturers who invest time, influence and resources.
“These forms of support, tangible and intangible, create continuity beyond the annual budget, proprietary resource system. A luncheon scholarships, advanced research, strengthen governance, inspire character formation, and reinforce institutional identity.”
He profoundly commended the governing council for recognizing that sustainability in a private university requires diversification not only of forming streams but also of ideas, collaboration, and donation opportunities including monetary and asset donations for system and infrastructure development.
The Chancellor charged members of the endowment committee to see their assignment as both strategic and relational.
According to him, “your work will involve careful oversight, transparent governance, student resource management, and the cultivation of partnerships that expand the university’s intellectual asset and social character.
While thanking the members of the committee or accepting to serve, Rev. Dr Omobude, expressed confidence in their ability to perform the task bestowed on them.
Responding on behalf of members of the LHU endowment committee, chairman of the team, Engr. (Dr) O.S., described the appointments as opportunities to serve, adding that they were fully ready to contribute meaningfully to the growth and the future of the Lighthouse University.
Acknowledging the enormity of the responsibility before the committee, Engr. Dr. Owieadolor, said the strength of their endowments will determine how well they can secure the future of the LHU and ensure that generations of students benefit from its vision.
In his welcome address, the Vice Chancellor of Lighthouse University, Prof. O.O. Osemwegie said the inauguration marked an important milestone in the life of the university.
“The inauguration of the Endowment Committee is indeed a milestone in the university’s journey to greatness. Today, we celebrate a collective vision for excellence in education, innovation, and the pursuit of knowledge that has been the cornerstone of Lighthouse University.
“The moment signifies not only our commitment to advancing academic endeavours, but also our dedication to ensuring sustained support for the mission of Lighthouse University to provide exceptional education and transformative experience for our students.
“The establishment of the Endowment Committee is a significant step towards fostering the culture of philanthropy and investment in our future. Through this committee, we aim to enhance the university’s capacity to provide scholarships, fund research, etc.
“It will be a vital resource to empower our students and faculties to excel in their respective fields”, the Vice Chancellor added.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by top officials of the institution, including Elder (Hon. Justice) Roland I. Amaize, the Chairman, LHU Governing Council who expressed confidence in the ability of the members of the endowment committee to perform their tasks creditably.
In a goodwill message, Elder Francis Idehen JP, a member of the institution’s Governing Council, congratulated the endowment committee members, and urged them to settle down quickly and hit the ground running, saying that much was expected from them.
