Babcock University Seeks Alumni Support for Growth

Babcock University Unveils New Approach to Alumni Engagement

Babcock University, located in Ilisan-Remo, Ogun State, has announced a new initiative aimed at enhancing alumni engagement and fostering institutional development through innovation, mentorship, and philanthropy. This move was revealed during the Alumni Connectivity Programme, an interactive event held for over 300 members of the 2025/2026 postgraduate graduating class—referred to as the Nova Class—before the university’s convocation.

Dr Jonathan Dangana, the Associate Vice President for Alumni Connectivity and Philanthropy, explained that the programme was designed to familiarize students with the responsibilities and opportunities that come with becoming part of the university’s alumni association. He emphasized that this initiative marks a shift from the traditional model of alumni engagement.

“Innovation is the only answer to growth. Over the years, we have been bringing alumni to speak to alumni, but we realized it was time to innovate so that we can grow,” Dangana said. “For the first time, we are bringing those graduating tomorrow into the alumni building for them to see what other alumni have done so they can begin to think about what their own contribution to the alumni association and the university will be.”

Dangana also highlighted that alumni contributions should not be limited to financial donations. He pointed out that mentorship, professional guidance, and voluntary service are equally valuable.

“Once you are an alumnus, there is always a place for you to contribute to the success of Babcock University. It does not have to be your money or your status. There is always something embedded in you that Babcock needs to become better. It could be a word of advice. It could be mentoring another graduate. There are a million and one ways to contribute to the growth of the university,” he added.

The university is currently exploring incentives to encourage long-term relationships between alumni and the institution. These may include benefits for their families. Dangana mentioned that while these plans are still in the early stages, the goal is to ensure that the university continues to support its graduates.

“We want to see how we can contribute something to the next generation that concerns them. We are looking at options, including possible benefits for their children and families, and we hope those proposals will see the light of day,” he said.

Another key point discussed was the suspension of the alumni bursary scheme. Dangana explained that this decision was made to invest in critical infrastructure. He clarified that the suspension was not for frivolous purposes but to fund capital projects.

“You can see that where we are standing today is the outcome of that suspension. We did not suspend it to organize parties. We suspended it for a capital project. Now that we have created the infrastructure, when people begin to commit themselves to it, we can reactivate the bursary scheme. Resources are scarce, so we must continue to find innovative ways of remaining relevant in the lives of our alumni,” he stated.

Strategic Importance of Alumni Networks

Dr Tutu Habib, the Career Services Lead in the Office of Alumni Connectivity and Philanthropy, described the programme as an opportunity for reflection, constructive feedback, and strengthening relationships between the university and its graduates. She emphasized that the alumni network is a strategic asset for institutional growth and career development.

“Today’s programme is a reflection session where we engage our postgraduate students, receive constructive criticism and feedback on how to improve our services and systems. The alumni network is a powerful leverage for any institution to raise funds, execute projects, and build strategic partnerships. We want our graduates to leave feeling empowered, valued, and with a sense of belonging,” she said.

Habib also highlighted the role of the alumni network in supporting the university’s newly established career services unit. This includes mentorship, internships, and employment opportunities for students.

“We expect to build a formidable alumni network that will contribute meaningfully to the development of the institution while promoting the values of excellence, integrity, and service for which Babcock is known,” she added.

Personal Journey of a Graduating Student

One of the graduating doctoral students, Dr Monday Ubani, shared his challenging yet rewarding academic journey at Babcock University. He completed a PhD in Law and recounted how he had to suspend his studies after the death of his father while struggling with a compulsory statistics course.

“Lawyers are not naturally good with mathematics, so statistics was a difficult experience for me. My father died during that period, and I had to withdraw from the programme. When I returned, I paid greater attention to the course and, by God’s grace, I eventually earned an A in Statistics,” he said.

Ubani also revealed that he lost his mother while writing his doctoral thesis but persevered to complete the programme. “When I was writing my thesis, my mother also died. It was another difficult moment, but God helped me to complete my work. Tomorrow, by God’s grace, I will be hooded at the convocation,” he said.

He praised the university for organizing activities that encouraged networking among graduating students and alumni. “This week’s activities, including the alumni engagement, networking sessions, football and other programmes, have been very exciting. I have enjoyed every bit of the experience,” he said.

Ubani urged alumni to play a more active role in supporting universities through funding, mentorship, and employment opportunities. “Government alone cannot adequately fund higher education. Alumni should pool resources, mobilize stakeholders, and philanthropists to support the university. Those who are already established should also help younger graduates with employment opportunities. Alumni have a major role to play in the growth and sustainability of their universities,” he concluded.

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