The Tosin Eniolorunda Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) laboratory was unveiled at the campus of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, as part of a significant investment made in the Mechanical Engineering Department to advance foster cation and fostering technological innovation in Nigeria.
In keeping with Moniepoint’s corporate social responsibility values, the gesture aims to make science and technology—particularly prototyping, design, and engineering—more approachable, engaging, and fun for students while also making a substantial contribution to efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s scientific and technological base.
Stakeholders believe that investments in STEM education will propel the socio-economic development of Africa, and Nigeria in particular, given the recent upsurge in the global tech industry. Although over 60% of Africans are still under 25, a recent poll reveals that less than 25% of African students enrolled in secondary and postsecondary institutions choose careers in STEM-related disciplines.
The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Adebayo Bamire, expressed his sincere gratitude for Moniepoint’s charitable donation during a ceremony to commission the facility.
Tosin Eniolorunda, a Co-founder
Of Moniepoint an alumnus of OAU’s Mechanical Engineering Department, also expressed gratitude.
He emphasised that a lack of funding was a problem for many higher education institutions in the nation, which in turn caused problems with infrastructure. He also urged other alumni to follow this example of giving back and collaborating to assist deserving causes within the university.
According to him: “This newly revamped lab represents more than just an upgrade; it stands as part of a personal commitment to foster a generation of engineers and innovators who are not only skilled but also inspired to think critically and creatively about real-world problems. A catalyst for innovation for the next generation of engineers and technologists who will drive Nigeria’s economic growth and advancement. By investing in STEM education and providing access to platforms like this lab, we’re laying the critical rails for the emergence of leaders, innovators, and changemakers that Nigeria needs.”
Continuing, he expressed gratitude to the university community for its ongoing commitment to the advancement of knowledge and innovation for learning and culture. He also mentioned that Nigeria’s engineering and technology sector has a bright future due to the young talent found within the ivory tower.
The renovation of the current laboratory space with state-of-the-art equipment, such as high-performance desktop and laptop computers, an interactive learning electronic board, laboratory furniture, supply and installation of sustainable power solutions, and sophisticated cooling systems, is part of the upgrade.
These cutting-edge tools will help students close the knowledge gap between theory and real-world application in the field of mechanical engineering by giving them firsthand exposure to the newest CAD/CAM technologies. The renovated facility will boost research skills and output in CAD/CAM technologies, raise graduates’ employability in the global job market, and serve as a model for STEM education facilities throughout Nigeria, according to Prof. Lasisi Umoru, dean of the OAU Faculty of Technology, BrandSpur technology and information news reports.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academics, Prof. M. Babalola, DVC, Administration, Prof. Adaramola, DVC Research, Innovation and Development, Prof. Akinyemi, Chairman, Committee of Deans, Prof. Adesina, Chairman, Ceremonials Committee, Prof. Adekola, Head of Department, Mechanical Engineering, Prof. Obayopo, Retired Prof of Mechanical Engineering, Prof. Adekoya, Chairman Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, Osun state chapter, Ademola Adesoji and Special Assistant to the Osun state governor on ICT, Sola Isola, Oyinlola Eniolorunda and Israel Eniolorunda as well as Head of Partnerships, Moniepoint Inc, Efemena Ogie, Employee Branding Lead, Gbemi Adekanmbi amongst others.
