In a bid to develop a world-class university ecosystem in Kwara State and North Central Nigeria, a new partnership has emerged comprising of the 8 universities in the State of Harmony. This partnership, named KU8 comprised of the 8 universities in the state namely: The University of Ilorin, (established 1975), Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin (established 2005), Kwara State University Molete (established 2009), Landmark University, Omu Aran (2011), Summit University Offa (2015), Crown Hill University, Ilorin (2016) and the two newest universities in the state, established in 2021, the Thomas Adewumi University and the Ahman Patigi University.
According to the convener of the KU8 initiative and the Vice-Chancellor, University of Ilorin, Professor Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, “the purpose of KU8 is mainly to develop closer relations, promote academic linkages and establish institutional collaboration which will allow joint activities in delivering the university mandates of teaching, research and community service”. The consortium therefore will promote the concept of Glocalisation in order to establish a balance between local relevance and global appeal for the member institutions.
The establishment of the consortium on Wednesday 11th January 2023, at the Council Chambers of the University of Ilorin, followed a unanimous affirmation by the Vice-Chancellors of the 8 universities through a set of mandate known as the “Ilorin Declaration on the Establishment of the Consortium of Universities in Kwara State (KU8)”. This declaration shall set the agenda for the emergence of a world-class university system in the sub-national region. While the membership of the consortium is limited to the Vice-Chancellors of the 8 universities in the state, the structure is flexible to accept new members as new universities are established. In addition, a consortium of the University Librarians, Directors of Academic Planning, Directors of Research, and Directors of Entrepreneurship and Community Development for the 8 universities shall form the technical support arm of the KU8.
One of the major highlights of the day was the designation of the University of Ilorin as the Secretariat, and the appointment of key officers for the consortium. Professor Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN of the University of Ilorin was appointed as the first Chairman of the KU8 and the Vice-Chancellor of Thomas Adewumi University, Oko Professor Francisca Oladipo, FNCS was appointed as the Secretary General while Professor Charity Aremu, Vice-Chancellor, Landmark University Omu-Aran emerged the treasurer.
