UNILAG VC Raises Alarm Over Funding Gaps, Brain Drain in Health and Education Sectors
The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Prof. Folashade Ogunsola, has expressed concern over the lingering crisis confronting Nigeria’s health and education sectors.
She noted that healthcare delivery in the country is not in crisis due to a lack of competent professionals, but rather as a result of inadequate funding and the persistent brain drain syndrome.
Prof. Ogunsola made this observation during the commissioning of a solar power system and a refurbished female hostel, Alliakilu Hall, at the College of Medicine, Idi-Araba, as part of activities marking the 40th anniversary reunion of the 1985 set of the institution.
Citing an example from the Dental Department, the Vice-Chancellor said a recent recruitment exercise recorded no applicants, explaining that many health professionals have relocated abroad or opted for private hospitals where they earn better salaries and enjoy more conducive working environments.
Despite the challenges, she said the institution remains motivated by the smiles and aspirations of young Nigerians, while urging the private sector to extend support to the health and education sectors through internship opportunities and capacity building, beyond infrastructure development.
Prof. Ogunsola further revealed that the university spends about ₦400 million monthly on power supply, potable water, refuse collection and other logistics, a figure she noted is almost equal to its monthly subvention from the Federal Government.
Speaking on the occasion, the Provost of the College of Medicine, Prof. Ademola Oremosu, described the day as historic, noting that two different alumni sets were giving back to the institution. He expressed excitement at reuniting with members of the alumni after nearly four decades.
The Provost also commended the 1985 set for choosing Lagos as the venue for their 40th reunion, adding that they remain an important part of the university’s development, particularly through their contributions from different parts of the world.
Earlier, the President of the Alumni Association, Dr. Kofo Ogunyakin, said members were delighted to reunite after many years, having converged from across the globe as apostles of excellence.
He thanked the Provost for his exemplary leadership in keeping the College of Medicine on the global map and assured that the Vice-Chancellor’s request for some alumni to return to the classroom would be given due consideration.
