ABEOKUTA – The Rector of Moshood Abiola Polytechnic, Abeokuta, Dr. Babatunde Jolaoso has urged members of the alumni association to embrace transformational partnerships and strategic interventions to rebrand the 46-year-old institution.
Jolaoso made this call while delivering the keynote address at a one-day training programme organized by the Lagos Chapter of the MAPOLY Alumni Association for its executive members.
Highlighting the importance of alumni relationships, the rector emphasised that “The strength of an institution is not just in its buildings but in the bond of its graduates and as such the intentional efforts to build strong connections within the alumni community are critical”.
According to him, the theme of the meeting resonates with the institutional need to unite with purpose, support each other, and uplift the polytechnic and the broader community.
Jolaoso proposed several ways to foster alumni engagement, including reunions, mentorship initiatives, professional networking events, and collaborative projects.
Each of these touch points, according to him, strengthens the alumni network, creating meaningful links between past students, the institution, and current learners.
He said, “Shared backgrounds offer powerful platforms for collaboration; whether through career support, entrepreneurial ventures, or personal development, we can leverage our MAPOLY identity to open doors for one another.”
The Rector also highlighted practical examples of alumni-driven impact, such as internships facilitated by alumni and business partnerships formed among old classmates, which he described as evidence of how synergy within the alumni body can yield tangible, beneficial outcomes.
He further stressed that alumni engagement thrives when contributions, whether in time, resources, or expertise, are given voluntarily and from the heart.
The Rector cited the notable contribution of the Marketing Department Alumni, which recently constructed and donated a ₦150 million building christened”Legacy House” to the institution.
He reaffirmed his unwavering support for the MAPOLY Alumni community, underscoring that the true strength of any academic institution is found not only in its physical structures but in the lifelong bonds and collective impact it fosters.
In his address, Mr. Gafar Odubote, Chairman of the MAPOLY Alumni Lagos Chapter, outlined a vision for structured alumni engagement, anchored on the MESSAGE Pillars—Member Empowerment, Sustainable Structure, Alumni Growth, and Engagement.
He emphasized that the MESSAGE framework is designed to redefine alumni interactions, ensuring long-term value and strategic impact.
“The MESSAGE Pillars are more than a set of ideals; they form the foundation of purposeful engagement,” Odubote asserted.
“By strengthening communication, expanding digital outreach, activating committees, and deepening institutional partnerships, we are creating a dynamic alumni network driven by strategy, clarity, and impact.”
Odubote further noted that MAPALUM’s leadership seeks to cultivate alumni synergy that transcends social gatherings, evolving into an ecosystem of mutual benefit, where members support one another through professional mentorship, career development, entrepreneurial initiatives, and institutional collaboration.
Echoing this commitment, Pastor Ezekiel Obasanya, National President of MAPOLY Alumni Association, encouraged executives to approach their roles with dedication and foresight.
“Our alma mater’s success hinges on our collective participation. We must not only preserve its legacy but enhance it for future generations,” he emphasized.
He also lauded the rector for his efforts in addressing key institutional challenges, urging continued collaboration between alumni and the administration.
A central theme of the seminar was the strategic positioning of alumni as vital stakeholders in MAPOLY’s long-term sustainability.
Speakers highlighted the significance of leveraging shared networks for career advancement, entrepreneurial collaboration, and institutional development, stressing that active alumni participation enriches the academic community and empowers students with valuable mentorship opportunities.
The seminar featured distinguished speakers, including past National President Mr. Olalekan Otun, former Chapter Chairman Mr. Adebola Fashina, alumni strategist, Mr. Ganiyu Olowu, and immediate past Lagos Chapter Chairman Mr. Segun Rufus. Their insights provided valuable perspectives on leadership, professional networking, and alumni-driven institutional development.
Designed to equip executive officers with strategic tools for transformative leadership, the training reinforced the association’s mission to build a strong and interconnected alumni community.
With a renewed focus on collaboration and impact, MAPOLY Alumni remains committed to fostering institutional excellence and sustaining a legacy of progress.
