_…As ANA Pays Courtesy Visit to the VC_
_By Olasunkanmi Olajide & Femi Dansu_
The Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) has announced plans to establish a well-equipped bookshop on the campus to enhance academic resources and to further promote a culture of reading and research.
The revelation came to light during a Courtesy Visit by the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), Ogun State Chapter to the Vice-Chancellor.
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde who was represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic, Prof. Olukayode Akinyemi disclosed this at the meeting.
Prof. Kehinde emphasised FUNAAB's commitment to innovation, excellence, integrity, and global relevance, stating that the University aimed to sustain these values in all its endeavours, including Teaching, Research, and Extension services.
He stressed the importance of reading and purchasing books, noting that the proposed bookshop would contribute significantly to fulfilling this need.
Highlighting the University's collaboration with the literary icon and Nobel Laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka, the Vice-Chancellor disclosed plans to transform the ceded Prof. Soyinka's Autonomous Republic of Ijegba (ARI) into a Resource Center for students.
He expressed confidence that this initiative would match any contemporary Library in terms of offerings and accessibility.
"Under the current administration, FUNAAB has prioritised Library reform, with particular emphasis on creating a conducive environment for reading," he noted.
The Vice-Chancellor further stated that the Nimbe Adedipe Library's 24-hour section has been available to students, aiming to cultivate a robust reading culture on campus.
Earlier, the Chairman of ANA, Ogun State Chapter, Dr. Chris Omotosho expressed gratitude for the warm reception by the FUNAAB Management. He emphasised ANA's role in promoting literacy and creativity, stating its commitment to supporting initiatives that foster a reading culture among students.
Dr. Omotosho said that the upcoming World Poetry Day on March 21, 2024, would be an opportunity to further engage with students and educators.
He solicited FUNAAB's support in making these events successful, stressing the importance of collaboration in addressing Nigeria's literacy challenges.
Dr. Omotosho underscored the correlation between socioeconomic well-being and literacy, advocating for concerted efforts to empower individuals through education and reading.
Other ANA members during the visit are, Prof. Tope Olaifa, Dare Folarin, Samuel Ogunyinka, Gloria Urube, Calista Adebayo and Femi Sanyaolu who is the Secretary of the Association.
Meanwhile, the proposed establishment of a bookshop at FUNAAB reflects a significant stride towards enriching academic resources and fostering a vibrant intellectual community within the University.
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