In a courtesy and familiarization visit to the University’s College of Medical and Health Sciences, Thomas Adewumi University, Oko, Kwara State, welcomed a distinguished visitor, Professor Clement Kiire, a renowned Consultant Gastroenterologist based in Manchester City, United Kingdom,
Professor Kiire, whose visit marks a significant step toward international collaboration, assessed the university's facilities, human resources, and developmental prospects with a view to supporting the institution through equipment donations, personnel exchange, and linkages with global medical networks.
The visit began with an opening meeting with the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Francisca Oladipo, who presented an address titled "Building on a Proud Legacy." In her presentation, Professor Oladipo provided an in-depth overview of TAU’s journey and mission. “As a university, we are deeply committed to the development of the Kwara South District and the upliftment of our host community. We build on a proud legacy of over 25 years established by our sister institution, Thomas Adewumi International College,” she stated.
Furthermore, she highlighted the University’s accelerated growth in just four years of establishment, noting that TAU is preparing to matriculate over 750 students and has made remarkable progress in academic programming and institutional development. The Vice-Chancellor also outlined TAU’s focus as a STEM-i university, emphasizing Science, Technology, Engineering, Medicine, and Innovations, and shared insights into the University’s Strategic Plan focused on:
• Academic Excellence
• Research and Innovation
• Brand Identity and Global Visibility
• Community Impact
• Grants and Capital Development
• Collaborations and Linkages
During the session, Professor Kiire actively engaged, asking thoughtful questions and offering expert suggestions. He expressed genuine admiration for the institution’s vision and development, stating, “I see opportunity here to make a difference.”
As part of the familiarization process, Professor Kiire embarked on a comprehensive tour of the University. He visited key academic and medical infrastructure including the science laboratories, the University’s Solar Farm, Engineering Workshop, the Centre for Distance and E-Learning, the Oko Medical Centre, and the Thomas Adewumi University Teaching Hospital in Omu-Aran.
Apart from this, he met with the Provost of the College of Medical and Health Sciences, Professor A.O.B. Omotoso, as well as other faculty members and unit heads. A special highlight of his visit was a meeting with the University Founder, Engr. Dr. Johnson Adewumi, where discussions centered around the future of the TAU College of Medical & Health Sciences, the Teaching Hospital, and how Professor Kiire’s expertise and network could contribute to its development.
As part of his cultural and diplomatic engagements, Professor Kiire also paid a visit to the Palace of the Oloko of Oko, where he met with the traditional ruler of the host community. The visit was an opportunity to deepen community relations and demonstrate respect for the local leadership that supports the growth of the University.
Professor Kiire’s visit was largely exploratory and information-gathering in nature, intended to give him a holistic understanding of the University’s operations, challenges, and areas where he could lend support through partnerships, human capital development, and resource mobilization.
The visit reaffirms TAU’s commitment to building global academic partnerships that enrich its programs and enhance its impact on the local and global medical community.
