Increase Funding Of LASU, Prof. Tells Lagos Govt

 

A Professor of Biochemistry, Babajide Elemo, has urged the Lagos State Government to increase the funding of the Lagos State University (LASU) substantially.

Elemo said this in his valedictory lecture, with the theme: “From Foundation To Future: An Odyssey of a Biochemist’s Four Decades at the LASU”,  on Thursday, in Lagos.

The professor said that there should be an increase in funds for biochemical reagents, laboratory chemicals and consumables in order to empower research management in the institution.

He said such step was also needed nationally.

Elemo said that in LASU, there was a need for more  space for staff offices, classrooms and laboratories that were conducive to learning for the increasing population.

“Currently, in LASU, there are over 400 students in our 100 level Biochemistry programme.

“I recommend that the university in conjunction with the state government should establish an industrial park/technology incubation centre for the transfer of technology from the laboratories.

“This idea will also enhance the entrepreneurial astuteness of our students.

“Lagos State government must, as a policy, patronise LASU more in terms of consultancy across the various disciplines,” he said.

The don said that government needed to encourage the growth of the newly established Faculties of Environment, Agriculture and other relevant schools by making them their first choice for expertise and consultancy.

“I urge that younger colleagues must be prepared to be mentored in the norms of academic research, teaching and evaluation.

“Any academic criticism should be objective, scientific, comprehensive and accurate; it should not be intended as a put down or an insult,” Elemo, however, cautioned.

He said that his retirement on Thursday was just a time when regular lectures and tutorials paused, but learning and pursuit of knowledge through research and innovation continued, being a permanent student of life.

“I am the first LASU-grown professor of Biochemistry and a distinguished one at that; LASU has given me the privilege and the opportunity to contribute to her greatness,” Elemo said.

He noted some of his researches that had been commercialized or had prospects for commercialisation.

They include production of soya sauce using 100 per cent local raw materials; extraction, purification and subsequent scaling up production of Thaumatin; development of sugar free diet drink (already commercialised) Sans Cream Soda; and development of toothpaste for sensitive teeth.

Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, Vice-Chancellor, LASU, said that they were privileged to have an experienced and profound scholar in the institution.

Olatunji-Bello, who was represented by Prof. Adenike Boyo, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration) described Elemo as a great scholar with deep researches.

“Elemo was committed to academic activities throughout his 40 years tenure; he displayed higher standard in the faculty of science and the institution.

“Due to his academic and research passion,  he had placed our institution on great success path within and outside Nigeria.

“Thank you sir, for your dedication, passion and impact on education; we wish you more success in your next endeavors,”she said.