Osun Monarch, Wife Strengthens Legal Education With Multi-million Naira Donation to UNILESA

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The Faculty of Law Library of the University of Ilesa (UNILESA) has received a significant boost following the donation and official handing over of law books of various categories and library shelves worth millions of naira by Olori Hon. Justice Dame Rukaya Bosede Haastrup, JP, KSJ, a Justice of the National Industrial Court, Abuja, and wife of His Royal Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Sir Jacob Adebayo Haastrup, the Olumobi of Imobi-Ijesa.

The symbolic presentation ceremony according to a statement by Babatunde Fanawopo, Senior Assistant Registrar, Corporate Service and Information Unit took place at the Ilesa residence of the Olumobi of Imobi-Ijesa and was attended by representatives of the University, and other stakeholders who commended the donor for her remarkable contribution to legal education and academic development.

Speaking during the presentation, Justice Haastrup lauded the Governing Council of the University of Ilesa and particularly the Vice Chancellor, Professor Taiwo Olufemi Asaolu, Ph.D., FCA, for providing an enabling environment that encourages stakeholders to contribute meaningfully to the growth and advancement of the institution.

She noted that the impressive strides recorded by the University under the leadership of the Vice Chancellor had inspired confidence among well-meaning individuals and development partners. According to her, “Professor Asaolu has demonstrated visionary leadership and commitment to excellence. He is steering the affairs of the University in the right direction and creating opportunities for stakeholders to participate actively in the institution’s development.”

Justice Haastrup explained that the donation was aimed at strengthening legal education and equipping students with the necessary resources to excel academically and undertake quality research.

She stressed that access to current legal texts and reference materials remains fundamental to the training of competent legal practitioners capable of meeting contemporary societal demands.

Highlighting the dynamic nature of the legal profession, the donor observed that the practice and study of law are rapidly evolving, particularly with the emergence of Artificial Intelligence and other technological innovations. “Law is evolving with Artificial Intelligence and several emerging areas taking centre stage. Universities must therefore remain ahead of the curve. The University of Ilesa must be seen to be on top of its game by ensuring that students have access to current and relevant legal resources,” she said.

The respected jurist further pledged her readiness to support initiatives aimed at enhancing the knowledge and professional development of law students of the University. She assured the institution that the donation would not be a one-off intervention, emphasizing her commitment to sustaining support for the Faculty of Law and the University’s academic programmes.

Justice Haastrup also expressed profound appreciation to her husband, the Olumobi of Imobi-Ijesa, for his unwavering encouragement and commitment to educational development. “Kabiyesi has been the driving force behind this donation. His love for Ijesaland and his passion for education are enormous. This gesture will be a continuous process, and I encourage the University to always relate with us for further support whenever necessary,” she stated.

In his welcome remarks, His Royal Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Sir Jacob Adebayo Haastrup, reflected on his longstanding attachment to the institution, tracing it back to its days as a college. He recalled his period as a student between 1983 and 1984, noting that the institution had remained close to his heart over the years. The monarch described the Vice Chancellor as “a great man, an achiever and a leader with a global vision,” whose leadership has continued to elevate the profile of the University.

Responding on behalf of the Governing Council and the University Management, the University Librarian, Mr. Adewale Amobi Ogunsipe, conveyed profound appreciation to Justice Haastrup and the Olumobi of Imobi-Ijesa for the generous donation. He described the intervention as a monumental contribution to human capital development and intellectual advancement within the Faculty of Law. “By this singular act, Your Lordship and Kabiyesi have written your names in gold in the history of the University of Ilesa. The University will never take this gesture for granted. These resources will undoubtedly enrich teaching, learning and research, while empowering our students to attain greater academic and professional heights,” he said.

The ceremony concluded with the formal handing over of the books and library shelves, further underscoring the shared commitment of stakeholders to advancing legal education and academic excellence at the University of Ilesa.