Ogbomoso Education Summit: Dr. Deji Adeleke Donates N100m to Advance Learning

A Landmark Commitment to Education

At the inaugural Ogbomoso Education Summit, Nigeria witnessed yet another act of philanthropy from one of its most respected business leaders. Dr. Deji Adeleke, businessman, philanthropist, and founder of Adeleke University, Ede, pledged a donation of N100 million to support the advancement of education in Ogbomosoland.

The announcement was made by Professor Luke Onuoha, Deputy Vice Chancellor of Adeleke University, during the summit. The gesture reflects Dr. Adeleke’s lifelong commitment to literacy, innovation, and human capital development.

Inspiration from Shared Vision

According to Dr. Adeleke, his decision to invest in Ogbomoso’s educational future was inspired by the vision of Oba Afolabi Ghandi Olaoye, the Soun of Ogbomoso. The monarch’s dedication to fostering learning and building a knowledge-driven society mirrors Adeleke’s own belief in education as the strongest tool for progress.

“I share the Soun’s dream of promoting literacy. This is the same vision that led me to establish Adeleke University,” he said through the university’s representative. His pledge demonstrates a clear alignment between private philanthropy and community aspirations.

The Summit: Charting a New Course

Convened by the Soun’s Education Committee under the leadership of Professor Olusegun Ajiboye, the Ogbomoso Education Summit was designed to provide actionable strategies for transforming education in the city.

The event brought together educators, policymakers, traditional rulers, and stakeholders to deliberate on practical reforms. It was not only a gathering of minds but also a call to action to rethink how Nigerian education prepares its young people for the realities of the 21st century.

The Monarch’s Call for Reform

Oba Olaoye, in his keynote address, emphasized that education remains the bedrock of human civilization. He highlighted its role as the single most effective tool for breaking the cycle of poverty.

“The world around us is changing faster than ever before. Technology, innovation, and knowledge economies are shaping power and prosperity. Our education system must go beyond preparing children for jobs; it must equip them to create solutions,” the monarch declared.

He urged stakeholders to involve young people early in leadership and innovation. According to him, the country cannot afford to delay reforms that will build thinkers, creators, and problem solvers.

Other Voices at the Summit

Several dignitaries and thought leaders reinforced this vision. Retired Major General Oladayo Popoola, former military governor of Oyo State, commended the initiative, describing it as timely and transformative.

Similarly, Dr. Taofeek Adekunle Abdul-Hameed, Rector of Federal Polytechnic Ayede, and Hon. Olamijuwonlo Alao-Akala made strong contributions, pledging support for the education trust fund. Their participation underlined the summit’s role as a unifying platform for collaboration.

Beyond a Donation: A Lasting Impact

Dr. Adeleke’s N100 million donation goes beyond philanthropy; it represents an investment in the future of Ogbomosoland. By supporting an education trust fund, he is laying the foundation for a sustainable approach that will empower generations.

The donation also reinforces the role of private individuals and institutions in complementing government efforts. In a country where public education faces structural challenges, such interventions can bridge critical gaps.

The Ogbomoso Education Summit has opened a new chapter in the city’s pursuit of educational excellence. With the backing of visionaries like Dr. Adeleke and the determination of the Soun of Ogbomoso, the path to innovation and human capital development has become clearer. If sustained, this movement could position Ogbomosoland as a model for community-driven educational transformation in Nigeria.