Prof. Ologunorisa gave the advice while making remarks at the 74th SSANU's Regular Statutory Meeting of Zonal Executive Council (ZEC), Western Zone held at OAUSTECH Main Campus, Okitipupa on Thursday, 15 August, 2024.The professor of climate science enumerated the 21st century skills that university administrators of this age required include digital skills, time management skills, collegiality skills, communication skills, artificial intelligence skills and emotional intelligence skills.

He added that university administrators of the century must imbibe and institutionalize the culture of punctuality, diligence, dutifulness, conscientiousness, dedication, enthusiasm and prompt service delivery.

He urged SSANU members to continue to update their knowledge and skills and to acquire a minimum of certification in Higher Education Administration and Leadership as done in developed climes so as to remain relevant and productive in the system.

Commending OAUSTECH SSANU branch for its maturity and cooperation with the management to move the University forward, the Scholar of Extra Ordinary Ability admitted that SSANU is a force to reckon with as machinery of progress, stability and development in university administration, not just association for needless protests and agitations.

Urging both state and federal governments to ensure adequate funding of universities and autonomy, Prof. Ologunorisa lamented that inadequate funding, undue interferences and poor governance are some challenges facing university administration in Nigeria.

"Adequate funding, good governance by the governing councils and management, talented staff and students are the three variables in running a world class university," Ologunorisa posited, calling on SSANU to be partners in progress in building 21st century universities across the country.

Signed

Abiodun P. Okunniga, MITD, MNIM
Registrar and Secretary to Council