Oye Ekiti, Nigeria – March 22, 2025
In a bid to strengthen its commitment to innovation, digital technology, and entrepreneurship, the Federal University Oye-Ekiti recently embarked on a strategic visit to the Africa Centre of Excellence, Obafemi Awolowo Knowledge Park (ACE-OAK Park) at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife. The visit was led by Prof. O.S. Ayanda, Director of Innovation and Digital Technology, and Dr. Adebimpe Esan, Director of Entrepreneurship, under the directive of FUOYE’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Abayomi S. Fasina.
The expedition was part of the Vice-Chancellor’s broader vision to position FUOYE as a leading academic and innovation hub in Nigeria. Guided by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (SPRIL), Prof. J.O. Ogunwole the two Directors were tasked with exploring opportunities for collaboration and learning from ACE-OAK Park’s successes in fostering ICT, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
Upon arrival, the FUOYE delegation was warmly received by the Director of ACE-OAK Park, Prof. Sola Aderounmu, who took them on a comprehensive tour of the facility. The tour included visits to the Incubation Centre, ACE Design Studio, Lounge, ACE-OAK Garden, Telepresence room, and other state-of-the-art facilities designed to nurture creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurial development.
At ACE-OAK Park, the delegates were treated to an immersive experience into the world of cutting-edge technology and innovation. Dr. Olusoji Ilori, Head of the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, led the delegation through a specialized section highlighting advancements in robotics, virtual simulations, and drone technology, among other groundbreaking innovations.
Following this, Professor A. O. Oluwatope, Head of the Department of Computer Engineering, took the delegates through an engaging session on product design, demonstrating the practical applications of 3D printing technology. This segment of the tour underscored how state-of-the-art tools, such as 3D printers, are being harnessed to drive innovation and creativity in engineering and design at ACE-OAK Park.
The visit highlighted the facility’s commitment to fostering technological advancement and its role as a hub for nurturing talent and innovation in Nigeria.
In her remarks, Dr. Adebimpe Esan, Director of Entrepreneurship, expressed enthusiasm for the potential collaboration between FUOYE and ACE-OAK Park. She said, “We are hopeful for a fruitful partnership that will benefit both institutions. By working together, we can create an ecosystem that supports innovation and entrepreneurship, not just within our universities but across Nigeria.”
Following her comments, Prof. O.S. Ayanda, Director of Innovation and Digital Technology, expressed gratitude to Prof. Aderounmu for the warm reception and insightful tour. He stated, “The knowledge gained from this visit will significantly strengthen our mission at the FUOYE Innovation Hub. We are inspired by the remarkable work being done here and look forward to implementing similar strategies at the Federal University Oye-Ekiti.”
The visit underscores FUOYE’s commitment to advancing ICT, innovation, and entrepreneurship as part of its strategic goals. Prof. Abayomi S. Fasina, the Vice-Chancellor, has consistently emphasized the importance of collaboration and knowledge-sharing in achieving academic excellence and societal impact.
As FUOYE continues to champion innovation and entrepreneurship, this visit marks a significant step toward building a robust network of academic and industry partnerships that will drive Nigeria’s digital transformation and economic growth.
