Our Reporter
In a landmark step toward boosting digital innovation and learning in tertiary institutions, HUAWEI Nigeria has officially donated a state-of-the-art Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Laboratory to the Lagos State University of Science and Technology (LASUSTECH).
The commissioning, which took place at the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) Building on the university’s main campus, attracted dignitaries from government, academia, and the technology sector.
The Vice Chancellor of LASUSTECH, Professor Olumuyiwa Odusanya, expressed immense gratitude during his address, describing the occasion as “a day of joy” and a major milestone in the institution’s journey toward technological excellence.
“This innovation laboratory being commissioned today is a testament to our town and gown initiative as outlined in our IMPACT strategy,” the Vice Chancellor stated. “We are especially thankful to HUAWEI Nigeria for this significant investment in our future. We owe a debt of gratitude and do not take this contribution lightly.”
Professor Odusanya acknowledged that the donation was made possible by the far-reaching impact of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s trip to China, crediting it as the starting point of the collaboration. He also commended the role of the Lagos State Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology, led by Honourable Commissioner Olatunbosun Alake, in making the project a reality.
The Vice Chancellor further appealed to HUAWEI to deepen its collaboration with the university by considering the establishment of a Data Centre and other technological projects. He also encouraged students to take advantage of funding and research support from the Lagos State Science Research and Innovation Council (LASRIC), of which he serves as Chairman.
Mr. Andrew Chen, General Manager of HUAWEI Nigeria, expressed his delight at being part of the initiative, stating that the donation is part of the company’s broader mission to equip Nigerian students with essential ICT skills. “We are proud to partner with LASUSTECH. Our hope is that, with the skills acquired in this lab, many students will be employable not just locally, but internationally—even by HUAWEI,” he said.
In his remarks, Honourable Commissioner Olatunbosun Alake highlighted the importance of embracing innovation and technology in today’s world. “Nothing good comes easy,” he told students. “But this lab is a game-changer. Make use of it, develop programs, and take ownership of your learning. You won’t be in the university forever.”
Alake emphasized that the laboratory is not just for the benefit of LASUSTECH but represents a significant contribution to the advancement of Lagos State as a whole. He commissioned the lab with a call for continued excellence, innovation, and responsible usage by the students and staff.
He was accompanied by Engineer Mrs. Ibilola Kasumu, Permanent Secretary, and other senior officials of the ministry.
The newly commissioned lab is expected to serve as a hub for research, software development, and practical ICT training, bridging the gap between academic knowledge and real-world application.
