Members of the 1995–2001 alumni set of the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), have donated solar-powered streetlights to two major student hostels—Adeboye (male) and Awosika (female). The lights were commissioned in a brief but impactful ceremony held on the university campus, aimed at enhancing the safety and visibility of the hostel surroundings at night.
Speaking at the event, President of the 95–01 alumni set, Mr. Olufemi Fajolu, expressed gratitude to FUTA for the training and values the institution instilled in them. “We are here today because FUTA made us. It’s a privilege to give back to a system that shaped us into what we are today,” he said. According to Fajolu, the donation goes beyond lighting up pathways—it symbolizes hope and the promise of a brighter future for current students.
“Our intention is not just to provide light, but to inspire. These lights are metaphors for the brighter future ahead. We want students to see this gesture as a message that giving back is a duty and a joy,” Fajolu added, reaffirming the set’s commitment to future projects that will impact the student community positively.
While commissioning the solar lights, Vice Chancellor of FUTA, Professor Adenike Oladiji, commended the 1995–2001 set for their continuous generosity. “You have once again demonstrated what you do best—giving,” she remarked. “Alumni are the soul of every institution, and your contributions only strengthen our resolve to keep the FUTA legacy alive.”
Professor Oladiji stressed that no act of giving is too small, adding that efforts such as these are deeply appreciated and often inspire the university management to complement alumni initiatives. She called on other alumni groups to emulate the example of the 95–01 set by identifying ways to support the institution.
The President of the FUTA Alumni Worldwide, Engr. Adeyemi Bello, also spoke at the event, praising the university’s management for maintaining strong ties with alumni members. “The FUTA management under Professor Oladiji has shown an unwavering commitment to engaging with alumni. This motivates us to continue in our resolve to support the institution,” he said.
Bello further hailed the 1995–2001 alumni set as trailblazers. “Whenever there’s a call to act, they are always the first to respond. You’ve set a standard, and we’re proud of your leadership and vision,” he added, noting that the alumni body is poised to contribute more meaningfully to FUTA’s growth.
Representing the student community, hall presidents Olufemi Fadoju (Adeboye Hostel) and Deborah Ojo (Awosika Hostel) expressed heartfelt gratitude to the alumni and university leadership. “We feel seen, supported, and inspired. On behalf of all students, thank you for thinking of us,” Ojo said. “We promise to pay it forward as future alumni.”
Other notable attendees at the ceremony included Vice President of the set, Oludipe Olurotimi; General Secretary, Adesanya Abayomi; Assistant Secretary, Akinola Obiyemi; Treasurer, Sanyaolu Olanike; Financial Secretary, Badmus Kazeem; Director of Socials, Kayode Oyinkolade; and Public Relations Officer, Ologun Olumide. Their presence further reinforced the strong unity and commitment within the 95–01 alumni set.
The event concluded with a symbolic lighting of the installed solar units, drawing cheers from students and staff who hailed the gesture as timely and thoughtful. As night fell over the FUTA campus, the new solar lights stood tall—not just as functional additions, but as shining symbols of alumni love, leadership, and legacy.
