“My desire is to make Fountain University hub for international students”- FUO VC

 Aminat Balogun and Taofeeqat Okunubi

Professor Olayinka Ramota Karim is the first Female Vice Chancellor of Fountain University Osogbo (FUO). She assumed duty as the 4th substantive Vice Chancellor of the institution on March 1, 2023. As a versatile researcher, The FUO VC has won many awards for research, training, and attendance at conferences from different bodies such as the TET FUND institution—based researchers, the University of Ilorin laboratory to product, among others. In this interview with Taofeeqat Okunnubi and Aminat Balogun, Professor Olayinka Karim spoke on her experience as the first female FUO VC, her programmes, and expectations from the community and society among other issues.

As the first female Vice Chancellor of Fountain University Osogbo, how does it feel to hold this esteemed position in the institution's history?

After spending 25 years in academia and holding various positions, becoming the 4th substantive Vice-chancellor of Fountain University and the first female Vice-Chancellor thrilled me. I was delighted, excited, and even a bit scared to be honest people had been congratulating me for a whole month even before I started the role, and my heart was racing, wondering if I could handle this position that is traditionally held by men. But, Ahamdulillah the appointment came my way, and it has been an amazing experience. It has opened doors and exposed me to so many new things that I would never have experienced otherwise. It has made me more determined, and committed and has strengthened my spirituality as a woman.

Now, I see this position not just as an academic or leadership role, but as a way to serve humanity and prove to the world that women can do anything men can do, and even better. This journey has completely transformed my life from where I was 25 years ago. I now strive for excellence every single day and also pray for achievement in everything I do.

What are your primary aspirations and goals for Fountain University during your tenure particularly in terms of academic excellence, research, and students' development?

I have outlined a seven-point agenda that serves as a guiding beacon for the university. This agenda is a strategic proposal and a roadmap for achieving my envisioned rebranding of Fountain University.

My primary goal is to elevate Fountain among the top universities in Nigeria the criteria for realizing this vision are diverse, Including key areas such as Academic Curriculum, scholarship initiative, student enrolment, digitalization efforts, internationalization through grants, and the overall quality of our graduates. My commitment is to enhance Fountain University's performance in each of these areas, ultimately positioning it at the forefront of academic institutions in Nigeria.

Now, let me delve into the specifics of the seven-point strategies that constitute my agenda

The cornerstone of my vision for Fountain University lies in the development of our curriculum and scholarship initiative this strategy is not merely about delivering education it is about creating a comprehensive learning environment that empowers students to overcome challenges, cultivate personal growth, and ultimately contribute meaningfully to the society. We are actively creating and expanding programs to meet the demands of prospective students currently, many Universities boost student populations exceeding 5,000 and Fountain University aims to reach and exceed this level to facilitate this growth, we recently received approval from the National University Commission (NUC) to launch 16 new programs this includes Six programs within the College of Arts (COART) including offerings in the College of Management and Social Sciences (COMAS), and the College of Natural and Applied Science (CONAS) covering areas such as Criminology, Electronics, and Postgraduate studies.

In our relentless quest for international partnerships, we have successfully signed six Memorandum of Understanding with three of them being international collaborations. The first MOU involved a trade agreement with Africa based in the UK this collaboration was a generous donation exceeding 134 million naira worth of laboratory equipment for our cancer medical biology laboratory. We have also established an MOU with INTI University in Malaysia with an ongoing effort to forge additional partnerships including with the Islamic International University.

We have implemented strategic measures at Fountain University to ensure financial sustainability in guiding economic challenges we opted for a modest 10% increase in school fees for indigent students while creating opportunities for increased funding my tenure as the Vice Chancellor has witnessed a transformation in governance we have fostered an inclusive culture where every staff member is considered vital regardless of their role. Recognizing the importance of each individual from gatekeepers to administrative staff is integral to achieving a well-maintained and effective university environment.

Accessibility is another cornerstone of my governance strategy as Vice Chancellor I have made it a priority to be available and approachable engaging in sport with students and working alongside staff to foster a sense of community and transparency.

As the first female Vice Chancellor, what message or inspiration do you hope to convey to aspiring female leaders, especially within the academic sphere?

In my role as the first female Vice Chancellor, I wish to convey a message of inclusivity, determination, and unwavering commitment to aspiring female leaders, particularly within the academic sphere.

Allah Subhanahu wa Ta’ala created us all with a shared purpose – to worship Him equally. Gender should not be a barrier in the pursuit of academic excellence. As females, we observe the same rituals of Solat, fast equally during the month of Ramadan, and perform the spiritual rites of Hajj without discrimination.

I strongly believe that gender should not limit our aspirations. Rather, it should serve as a catalyst, reinforcing the notion that what a man can do, a woman can do equally well, if not better. As an academic, I discourage gender discrimination and encourage my fellow females to approach academia with determination, focus, and unwavering commitment.

My advice is simple: be determined, stay focused, and break through the perceived limitations. Additionally, I emphasize the importance of mentorship. Having a mentor provides guidance, coaching, and a roadmap for success. Learn from those who have excelled, study their paths, and embrace both their achievements and learning from mistakes.

Lastly, I encourage aspiring female leaders to view their families not as barriers but as a source of strength. Balancing multiple roles is challenging, but acknowledging the support of your family can transform these challenges into strengths. Remember, both men and women have distinct roles, and acknowledging and embracing these roles contributes to a harmonious and successful journey in both academia and personal life.

What do you perceive as the biggest challenges and opportunities facing higher education institutions in Nigeria today, and how does Fountain University plan to address them under your leadership?

The foremost challenges confronting higher institutions in Nigeria today are twofold: funding constraints and the prevalent brain drain phenomenon, commonly referred to as the "JAPA Syndrome." Recognizing the interdependence of these challenges, Funding emerges as a pivotal factor, with its scarcity directly contributing to brain drain issues. While the university harbors numerous aspirations for facility improvements, the primary challenge lies in securing the necessary finances to initiate and sustain these projects

The first aspect of our plan involves a focused effort on improving student enrollment. Recognizing school fees as a primary revenue source, an increase in enrollment directly translates to enhanced financial stability for the university Moreover, we are actively pursuing grant opportunities to augment our funding. Recent success stories, such as a professor in chemical science securing a grant worth over £18,000 in Cambridge, serve as a testament to our potential in this regard. The infusion of grants will undoubtedly elevate our financial capabilities.

Our comprehensive strategy revolves around improving enrollment, fostering endowment growth, and increasing grant-winning

With these approaches, Fountain University aims to not only address the current funding challenges but also curtail the brain drain syndrome by creating an environment that attracts and retains exceptional personnel.

How do you plan to enhance the overall students experience and academic support service at Fountain University, ensuring the holistic development of students?

At Fountain University, our commitment extends beyond the traditional realms of textbooks and classrooms. We envision an enriching life experience for our students one that includes various activities and aspects of personal development. Beyond the core academic purpose, we aim to diversify the learning experience. Pending approval from ICAN, we plan to extend ICAN training certifications to all students, broadening their skills beyond their chosen program's curriculum. Entrepreneurship is a key focus, with students gaining practical experience. We celebrate instances like an alumnus from the Department of Chemical Science winning an award for producing cleaning products, showcasing the success of our integrated learning approach. Encouraging a balanced lifestyle, we aspire for students to excel in sports. Grateful for the youth of NASFAT, we've received contributions such as a basketball court, and plans are underway for a tennis court. Improvements to the football pitch and procurement of additional sporting facilities are part of our vision. Recognizing the importance of social activities, we emphasize moderation. Inter-departmental games and competitions, along with initiatives in the hostels, promote healthy social interactions among students.

Anchored in the Islamic foundation, we prioritize spiritual life. With the beautiful mosque on campus, we offer opportunities for religious learning, including Fiqh and Dawah training.

The inaugural Walimatul Quran on January 7th will be a milestone, allowing students to earn certificates in both academics and spirituality. To reinforce the Islamic ethos, we are working towards making the observance of solat mandatory for all Muslim students, fostering a deeper connection with their faith.

In essence, Fountain University is dedicated to providing a full-bodied learning experience that goes beyond academics, embracing entrepreneurship, sports, social interactions, and spiritual development. Our goal is to shape well-rounded individuals equipped for success in all facets of life.

What update can you provide on the development of the south campus that was planned last session?

Developments are underway at the south campus of Fountain University, where our vision includes the establishment of a new senate building and the introduction of additional colleges. We are committed to creating a vibrant academic environment, and as part of this initiative, a comprehensive road network will be opened to enhance accessibility.

While funding remains a significant challenge, we are resolute in our commitment to realizing this transformative project. Our dedication to advancing the academic infrastructure at the south campus reflects our ongoing efforts to provide an enriched learning environment for the Fountain University community.

What strategies or initiative do you intend to implement to encourage innovation, research, and collaborative academic endeavours among faculty and students?

To fortify our commitment to research excellence and innovation, Fountain University has taken significant strides in creating dedicated centers to oversee various activities. The establishment of the Center for Research, Innovation, and Technology, led by a proficient professor, is pivotal in our pursuit of global recognition.

The Center for Research has been entrusted with the responsibility of identifying global opportunities and disseminating information on available grants to the university community. Through this channel, our staff is informed of potential grants, fostering a culture of proactive engagement in research and development.

The In-House Training Center has played a crucial role in enhancing staff capabilities, particularly in the art of crafting award-winning proposals. Recognizing the importance of such accolades, we have instituted the Researcher of the Year award during convocation and the Merit Award Day to acknowledge and reward outstanding staff and students.

To further support our researchers, we have introduced a mentorship system, where seasoned professionals guide younger colleagues in the intricacies of winning awards and composing effective research proposals.

As a testament to our dedication, we have established the NASFAT FUO Research Grant, awarding a sum of three million Naira to deserving researchers to encourage groundbreaking researches and reinforces commitment to advancing knowledge at Fountain University.

How will the University foster a culture of diversity, inclusivity, and equality among its students, faculty and staff?

In addition to our internal endeavors, prioritizing social services has been a focal point at Fountain University, contributing positively to both the local community and our extended university family. One noteworthy achievement is the cervical cancer screening initiative held at the NASFAT OSOGBO branch, where 18 females benefited from the collaborative efforts of our university and a biomedical lab from Lagos. This service was provided free of charge, deepening our commitment to community health. The introduction of the Law Clinic at the College of Law is another milestone, providing a space where the community can seek advice and support. This initiative aligns with our mission to extend legal assistance beyond the university walls. During the International Blood Day, the Department of Public Health, in collaboration with Medical Laboratory Science and Nursing, organized blood screening and donation activities involving the community. Public health students, along with other departments, are actively engaging in medical training awareness programs across various communities. The commissioning of the Jubril Ayinla Hostel was a significant community event, marked by the presence of the royal majesty, the Ataoja of Osogbo, and numerous chiefs. Their support signifies the strong relationship between the university and the local community. Notably, a member of the AYANLOWO family, a ruler from our immediate community, will be recognized at our upcoming Merit Award Day, highlighting the reciprocal benefits of our community contributions. Finally, a source of great pride for us is the mosque which serves as a focal point for Jumat services, welcoming the entire community.

When your tenure as the Vice Chancellor concludes, what would you like your legacy to be or the impact you hope to have made on Fountain University?

My overarching vision is to witness the realization of Fountain University as one of the foremost institutions in Nigeria. The legacy I envision includes substantial growth in student enrollment, marked improvements in our physical infrastructure, and the attainment of international recognition.

I am driven by the desire to see Fountain University become a hub for international students, with our students securing victories in global competitions and receiving international accolades. While I am gratified by the existing merit awards and the achievements of our distinguished alumni, my aspiration is for Fountain to continue fostering excellence both nationally and on the global stage. This is the overarching goal that propels my vision for the future of Fountain University.

Professor Olayinka Ramota Karim is the first Female Vice Chancellor of Fountain University Osogbo (FUO). She assumed duty as the 4th substantive Vice Chancellor of the institution on March 1, 2023. As a versatile researcher, The FUO VC has won many awards for research, training, and attendance at conferences from different bodies such as the TET FUND institution—based researchers, the University of Ilorin laboratory to product, among others. In this interview with Taofeeqat Okunnubi and Aminat Balogun, Professor Olayinka Karim spoke on her experience as the first female FUO VC, her programmes, and expectations from the community and society among other issues.

As the first female Vice Chancellor of Fountain University Osogbo, how does it feel to hold this esteemed position in the institution's history?

After spending 25 years in academia and holding various positions, becoming the 4th substantive Vice-chancellor of Fountain University and the first female Vice-Chancellor thrilled me. I was delighted, excited, and even a bit scared to be honest people had been congratulating me for a whole month even before I started the role, and my heart was racing, wondering if I could handle this position that is traditionally held by men. But, Ahamdulillah the appointment came my way, and it has been an amazing experience. It has opened doors and exposed me to so many new things that I would never have experienced otherwise. It has made me more determined, and committed and has strengthened my spirituality as a woman.

Now, I see this position not just as an academic or leadership role, but as a way to serve humanity and prove to the world that women can do anything men can do, and even better. This journey has completely transformed my life from where I was 25 years ago. I now strive for excellence every single day and also pray for achievement in everything I do.

What are your primary aspirations and goals for Fountain University during your tenure particularly in terms of academic excellence, research, and students' development?

I have outlined a seven-point agenda that serves as a guiding beacon for the university. This agenda is a strategic proposal and a roadmap for achieving my envisioned rebranding of Fountain University.

My primary goal is to elevate Fountain among the top universities in Nigeria the criteria for realizing this vision are diverse, Including key areas such as Academic Curriculum, scholarship initiative, student enrolment, digitalization efforts, internationalization through grants, and the overall quality of our graduates. My commitment is to enhance Fountain University's performance in each of these areas, ultimately positioning it at the forefront of academic institutions in Nigeria.

Now, let me delve into the specifics of the seven-point strategies that constitute my agenda

The cornerstone of my vision for Fountain University lies in the development of our curriculum and scholarship initiative this strategy is not merely about delivering education it is about creating a comprehensive learning environment that empowers students to overcome challenges, cultivate personal growth, and ultimately contribute meaningfully to the society. We are actively creating and expanding programs to meet the demands of prospective students currently, many Universities boost student populations exceeding 5,000 and Fountain University aims to reach and exceed this level to facilitate this growth, we recently received approval from the National University Commission (NUC) to launch 16 new programs this includes Six programs within the College of Arts (COART) including offerings in the College of Management and Social Sciences (COMAS), and the College of Natural and Applied Science (CONAS) covering areas such as Criminology, Electronics, and Postgraduate studies.

In our relentless quest for international partnerships, we have successfully signed six Memorandum of Understanding with three of them being international collaborations. The first MOU involved a trade agreement with Africa based in the UK this collaboration was a generous donation exceeding 134 million naira worth of laboratory equipment for our cancer medical biology laboratory. We have also established an MOU with INTI University in Malaysia with an ongoing effort to forge additional partnerships including with the Islamic International University.

We have implemented strategic measures at Fountain University to ensure financial sustainability in guiding economic challenges we opted for a modest 10% increase in school fees for indigent students while creating opportunities for increased funding my tenure as the Vice Chancellor has witnessed a transformation in governance we have fostered an inclusive culture where every staff member is considered vital regardless of their role. Recognizing the importance of each individual from gatekeepers to administrative staff is integral to achieving a well-maintained and effective university environment.

Accessibility is another cornerstone of my governance strategy as Vice Chancellor I have made it a priority to be available and approachable engaging in sport with students and working alongside staff to foster a sense of community and transparency.

As the first female Vice Chancellor, what message or inspiration do you hope to convey to aspiring female leaders, especially within the academic sphere?

In my role as the first female Vice Chancellor, I wish to convey a message of inclusivity, determination, and unwavering commitment to aspiring female leaders, particularly within the academic sphere.

Allah Subhanahu wa Ta’ala created us all with a shared purpose – to worship Him equally. Gender should not be a barrier in the pursuit of academic excellence. As females, we observe the same rituals of Solat, fast equally during the month of Ramadan, and perform the spiritual rites of Hajj without discrimination.

I strongly believe that gender should not limit our aspirations. Rather, it should serve as a catalyst, reinforcing the notion that what a man can do, a woman can do equally well, if not better. As an academic, I discourage gender discrimination and encourage my fellow females to approach academia with determination, focus, and unwavering commitment.

My advice is simple: be determined, stay focused, and break through the perceived limitations. Additionally, I emphasize the importance of mentorship. Having a mentor provides guidance, coaching, and a roadmap for success. Learn from those who have excelled, study their paths, and embrace both their achievements and learning from mistakes.

Lastly, I encourage aspiring female leaders to view their families not as barriers but as a source of strength. Balancing multiple roles is challenging, but acknowledging the support of your family can transform these challenges into strengths. Remember, both men and women have distinct roles, and acknowledging and embracing these roles contributes to a harmonious and successful journey in both academia and personal life.

Prof. Karim

 

What do you perceive as the biggest challenges and opportunities facing higher education institutions in Nigeria today, and how does Fountain University plan to address them under your leadership?

The foremost challenges confronting higher institutions in Nigeria today are twofold: funding constraints and the prevalent brain drain phenomenon, commonly referred to as the "JAPA Syndrome." Recognizing the interdependence of these challenges, Funding emerges as a pivotal factor, with its scarcity directly contributing to brain drain issues. While the university harbors numerous aspirations for facility improvements, the primary challenge lies in securing the necessary finances to initiate and sustain these projects

The first aspect of our plan involves a focused effort on improving student enrollment. Recognizing school fees as a primary revenue source, an increase in enrollment directly translates to enhanced financial stability for the university Moreover, we are actively pursuing grant opportunities to augment our funding. Recent success stories, such as a professor in chemical science securing a grant worth over £18,000 in Cambridge, serve as a testament to our potential in this regard. The infusion of grants will undoubtedly elevate our financial capabilities.

Our comprehensive strategy revolves around improving enrollment, fostering endowment growth, and increasing grant-winning

With these approaches, Fountain University aims to not only address the current funding challenges but also curtail the brain drain syndrome by creating an environment that attracts and retains exceptional personnel.

How do you plan to enhance the overall students experience and academic support service at Fountain University, ensuring the holistic development of students?

At Fountain University, our commitment extends beyond the traditional realms of textbooks and classrooms. We envision an enriching life experience for our students one that includes various activities and aspects of personal development. Beyond the core academic purpose, we aim to diversify the learning experience. Pending approval from ICAN, we plan to extend ICAN training certifications to all students, broadening their skills beyond their chosen program's curriculum. Entrepreneurship is a key focus, with students gaining practical experience. We celebrate instances like an alumnus from the Department of Chemical Science winning an award for producing cleaning products, showcasing the success of our integrated learning approach. Encouraging a balanced lifestyle, we aspire for students to excel in sports. Grateful for the youth of NASFAT, we've received contributions such as a basketball court, and plans are underway for a tennis court. Improvements to the football pitch and procurement of additional sporting facilities are part of our vision. Recognizing the importance of social activities, we emphasize moderation. Inter-departmental games and competitions, along with initiatives in the hostels, promote healthy social interactions among students.

Anchored in the Islamic foundation, we prioritize spiritual life. With the beautiful mosque on campus, we offer opportunities for religious learning, including Fiqh and Dawah training.

The inaugural Walimatul Quran on January 7th will be a milestone, allowing students to earn certificates in both academics and spirituality. To reinforce the Islamic ethos, we are working towards making the observance of solat mandatory for all Muslim students, fostering a deeper connection with their faith.

In essence, Fountain University is dedicated to providing a full-bodied learning experience that goes beyond academics, embracing entrepreneurship, sports, social interactions, and spiritual development. Our goal is to shape well-rounded individuals equipped for success in all facets of life.

What update can you provide on the development of the south campus that was planned last session?

Developments are underway at the south campus of Fountain University, where our vision includes the establishment of a new senate building and the introduction of additional colleges. We are committed to creating a vibrant academic environment, and as part of this initiative, a comprehensive road network will be opened to enhance accessibility.

While funding remains a significant challenge, we are resolute in our commitment to realizing this transformative project. Our dedication to advancing the academic infrastructure at the south campus reflects our ongoing efforts to provide an enriched learning environment for the Fountain University community.

What strategies or initiative do you intend to implement to encourage innovation, research, and collaborative academic endeavours among faculty and students?

To fortify our commitment to research excellence and innovation, Fountain University has taken significant strides in creating dedicated centers to oversee various activities. The establishment of the Center for Research, Innovation, and Technology, led by a proficient professor, is pivotal in our pursuit of global recognition.

The Center for Research has been entrusted with the responsibility of identifying global opportunities and disseminating information on available grants to the university community. Through this channel, our staff is informed of potential grants, fostering a culture of proactive engagement in research and development.

The In-House Training Center has played a crucial role in enhancing staff capabilities, particularly in the art of crafting award-winning proposals. Recognizing the importance of such accolades, we have instituted the Researcher of the Year award during convocation and the Merit Award Day to acknowledge and reward outstanding staff and students.

To further support our researchers, we have introduced a mentorship system, where seasoned professionals guide younger colleagues in the intricacies of winning awards and composing effective research proposals.

As a testament to our dedication, we have established the NASFAT FUO Research Grant, awarding a sum of three million Naira to deserving researchers to encourage groundbreaking researches and reinforces commitment to advancing knowledge at Fountain University.

How will the University foster a culture of diversity, inclusivity, and equality among its students, faculty and staff?

In addition to our internal endeavors, prioritizing social services has been a focal point at Fountain University, contributing positively to both the local community and our extended university family. One noteworthy achievement is the cervical cancer screening initiative held at the NASFAT OSOGBO branch, where 18 females benefited from the collaborative efforts of our university and a biomedical lab from Lagos. This service was provided free of charge, deepening our commitment to community health. The introduction of the Law Clinic at the College of Law is another milestone, providing a space where the community can seek advice and support. This initiative aligns with our mission to extend legal assistance beyond the university walls. During the International Blood Day, the Department of Public Health, in collaboration with Medical Laboratory Science and Nursing, organized blood screening and donation activities involving the community. Public health students, along with other departments, are actively engaging in medical training awareness programs across various communities. The commissioning of the Jubril Ayinla Hostel was a significant community event, marked by the presence of the royal majesty, the Ataoja of Osogbo, and numerous chiefs. Their support signifies the strong relationship between the university and the local community. Notably, a member of the AYANLOWO family, a ruler from our immediate community, will be recognized at our upcoming Merit Award Day, highlighting the reciprocal benefits of our community contributions. Finally, a source of great pride for us is the mosque which serves as a focal point for Jumat services, welcoming the entire community.

When your tenure as the Vice Chancellor concludes, what would you like your legacy to be or the impact you hope to have made on Fountain University?

My overarching vision is to witness the realization of Fountain University as one of the foremost institutions in Nigeria. The legacy I envision includes substantial growth in student enrollment, marked improvements in our physical infrastructure, and the attainment of international recognition.

I am driven by the desire to see Fountain University become a hub for international students, with our students securing victories in global competitions and receiving international accolades. While I am gratified by the existing merit awards and the achievements of our distinguished alumni, my aspiration is for Fountain to continue fostering excellence both nationally and on the global stage. This is the overarching goal that propels my vision for the future of Fountain University.