The Founder of Sam Maris University (SMU) in Supare-Akoko, Ondo State, Mr. Sam T. Ologunorisa, SAN, has pledged to foster a strong bond with the University's host community.
Ologunorisa, at a town hall meeting with the Stakeholders from Supare Community on Saturday, emphasized the importance of town and gown relationship in promoting the development of the Community, the growth of the University and the advancement of tertiary education in Nigeria.
Welcoming the Stakeholders to the meeting, the Legal Luminary said “Thank you for joining us today. Your presence is a great honour. We are delighted to host this meeting because it aims at establishing a robust town and gown relationship, geared towards peaceful co-existence, mutual understanding and collaboration, the development of our Community as well as the fulfillment of the Mandate of our University.”
“I extend my sincere gratitude to the entire members of Supare Community for generously providing us with this expanse of land on which our University is situated. I am overwhelmed with such a great joy that the University is built within the community of progressive minds, people that are patriotic, accommodative and supportive in every respect.”
“I consider your cooperation as an invaluable tool in advancing the cause of this University, and developing its potentials to enviable heights among the comity of universities worldwide. I therefore plead with you to become partners in the scheme of things noting that the growth and expansion of the University will impact positively and correspondingly on the economic transformation and development of our Community.”
Corroborating the words of the Founder, the Vice-Chancellor of the Institution, Prof. Francis Gbore, applauded the Community for its cooperation with Management in fostering peace and harmony since the take-off of the University.
“It is also with great pleasure and pride that I stand before you today as the Vice-Chancellor of Sam Maris Varsity, the first private University in Akoko Land, established in Supare-Akoko, Ondo State.
“At Sam Maris Varsity, we are committed to providing the finest education, enriched with unparalleled features designed to empower our students for success; create an environment where learning knows no bounds.
“Beyond our physical infrastructure, what truly sets us apart is the commitment to excellence and unwavering dedication of our faculty and staff.”
“As we embark on this journey towards advancing higher education, I would like to urge our esteemed host community to join hands with us irrevocably and indiscriminately to create a brighter future for our students and the community at large. Together, let us build bridges of understanding and cooperation, fostering a harmonious relationship that will benefit all of and long lasting.”
Speaking on behalf of the Community, Chief Matthew Oludemi extolled the Founder and Management of the University for engaging with the Community Stakeholders.
He assured Management of positive disposition and the full support of the host Community to the progress of the University.
Other critical Stakeholders at the meeting include Hon. Tope Agbulu, a strategic partner and member of the Ondo State House of Assembly representing Akoko South West Constituency II where the University resides, the Chairman of Ondo State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Rt. Hon. Victor Olabimtan, the Orogbinle of Etioro-Supare, High Chief Peter Adewunmi, the representative of Alaafa of Supare, Mr. Vincent Oluyede, Pa. G. T. Ologunoba, Pa. S. A. Adarabioyo, Mrs. Mary Adeola, Mr. Micheal Awodusi, Youth Leader, and a host of others.
