LANDMARK UNIVERSITY REPORT OF THE EXECUTIVE ADVANCE FOR FACULTY & STAFF 2024/2025 ACADEMIC SESSION

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• December 9, 2024
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THEME: IN PURSUIT OF VISION 7:2030 – SUSTAINING LANDMARK WORLD CLASS STATUS

DATE: September 18 – 20, 2024

VENUE: INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE CENTRE (ICC)

DAY 1

• The Advance commenced with an opening prayer by Pastor Joshua Ayodeji-Popoola, followed by a praise and worship session by Dr Olumoyewa Atoyebi.
• The Registrar, Engr Adebayo Ajala, in his Welcome Remark, established the theme of this year’s advance: IN PURSUIT OF VISION 7:2030 – SUSTAINING LANDMARK WORLD CLASS STATUS. He emphasized on the need to create a welcoming learning environment and improve our teaching techniques. He also called on all faculty and staff to demonstrate a stakeholder mentality to achieve Vision 7:2030.
• This was quickly followed by the Vice Chancellor’s Remark. The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Kolawole O. Ajanaku, extended his appreciation to the entire Landmark University community as we prepare for the 2024/2025 academic session. He stated that we must review our last session’s activities as this will help us to situate our next action of impact this session. The Vice-Chancellor stressed, among other things, that Advancement is not in sitting down, it is in taking steps; and quoting the words of the Chancellor, he accentuated that if we are not taking relevant actions, we will lose relevance. Therefore, he urged us to enter the session with the commitment to achieving our goals as a University and as individuals, and faithfully applying all the things we will be learning in this advance. 

SUMMARY OF THE PRESENTATIONS

On this first day, we had a total of 8 presentations bothering on spirituality, global ranking profile, postgraduate research, improved learning & teaching outcomes, strategies for securing competitive grants, course compacts preparation, and academic quality. 

PRESENTATION 1 – A joint session with Covenant University

Presenter: Dr. David Oyedepo, The Chancellor 

Topic: SPIRITUALITY: GATEWAY TO INTELLECTUAL PROWESS

The Chancellor, Dr. David Oyedepo, underscored the role of divine inspiration in accessing ultimate intellectualism, stating that spirituality is the root of ultimate intelligence that leads to intellectual prowess. He further stressed that spiritual disposition is the breeding ground for inspiration, which engenders solutions through innovation, creativity, and invention. 

The Chancellor defines prowess as a superior skill that you can learn by study, practice, and observations, and relevance is when we play our role to make life easy for others. He advised that no institution can attain relevance without social impact, and one cannot be relevant unless he is current in his field. 

Furthermore, the Chancellor admonished that we don’t watch problems to solve them, we confront them to solve them; and the only proof of a vision is to run, as no one wins a race in the bedroom. Races are won on the track.

PRESENTATION 2

TOPIC: PATHWAYS FOR SUSTAINING LANDMARK’S GLOBAL RANKING PROFILE

Presenter:  Prof Kolawole Ajanaku, The Vice Chancellor

The Vice-Chancellor defined pathways as strategic routes or methods designed to achieve specific goals or outcomes. They provide a structured approach to navigating complex tasks or objectives, whether in personal development, organizational planning, or any other field. He also stated that establishing a pathway gives us clarity, organization, and the ability to track our progress.

According to the Vice Chancellor, the components of the pathway are;

1. Defining your goals: That is, have clear and measurable targets that define what the pathway will guide you to achieve (he emphasized the need to always have a self-appraisal from time to time)
2. Identifying key steps to achieving your goal (which entails monitoring our progress from time to time)
3. Resources & Supports (which are the necessary tools, skills, and support systems required to follow the pathway)
4. Monitoring and Evaluation (which includes the methods for tracking progress and assessing whether the pathway is leading to the desired outcomes)

The Vice-Chancellor extensively explained the key components of a global ranking profile for Universities, including Academic reputation, research output and impact, teaching and learning environment, international outlook, employability and alumni success, facilities, and resources. He heartily talked about the need – and enjoined us – to drive quality and impactful teaching, research, publications, and community service in the University. 

PRESENTATION 3

TOPIC: POST GRADUATE RESEARCH ENDEAVOURS IN LANDMARK UNIVERSITY: A REVIEW OF NEW POLICY DIRECTIONS

Presenter: Prof Enoch Oyawoye, Dean, School of Postgraduate Studies (SPS)

The presentation focused on the role of the Postgraduate School as the engine room of research in the university system and proposed new policy directions to improve postgraduate training at Landmark University. He emphasized that quality research brings about quality thesis/dissertations, and ultimately leads to quality publication that can bring Landmark University into global relevance/limelight. Prof Oyawoye identified current challenges in postgraduate research endeavours at Landmark University, and they include the need for applied research solving societal challenges, funding requirements, and lack of diligence among some stakeholders, identified gaps in quality assurance of Post Graduate School among others. 

He proposed the following new policy directions such as the appointment of a Sub-Dean as Quality Assurance Officer, the appointment of more senior academic staff across colleges, the purchase of new equipment and repair of existing ones, harmonization of course units for PGD, Masters, and Ph.D. across departments, a proposal for a minimum score of 60% in Ph.D. courses, and the need to focus on solving agricultural problems across all colleges, among others. 

In the same vein, he stressed that research requires funding and funding can come through grants by international funding agencies, industries, govt agencies, and internal grants from the university. He implored that postgraduate students and faculty members should explore these opportunities. 

PRESENTATION 4

TITLE: RESEARCH INTENSIVE APPROACH FOR THE ATTAINMENT OF VISION 7:2030

Presenter: – Prof Oluwasogo Dada, Director, Centre for Research, Innovation and Discovery (LUCRID)

In his thought-provoking presentation, Prof Dada emphasized that university performance is measured by faculty/staff engagement and proprietor endowment, focusing on the tripodal mandates of teaching, research, and community development.

He evaluated the LMU research outputs (past/present), and according to him, in 2024 there was an increase in conference papers, book chapters, articles, reviews, etc. in relation to what we had in the previous year. He stated that he was encouraged that we are already moving towards our research and publication goals.

However, he admonished that we should not rest on our laurels, and we must sustain this bar of excellence. One of the ways to do that is to take the following research-intensive approach:

1. Identifying innovative solutions
2. Driving interdisciplinary collaborations
3. Carrying out credible research
4. Informed policy development

Prof Dada listed the following key performance indicators for research impact:

1. Publication Rates
2. Interdisciplinary Collaborations
3. Policy Changes
4. Funding Acquisition
5. Citations

He called on everyone to join the research revolution and particularly advised:

1. An SDG-driven research
2. A university-based publication
3. Adequate research collaboration

As a take-away, he concluded that research is seeing what everybody else has seen and thinking what nobody else has thought; and if you can win over your mind, you can win over the whole world.

PRESENTATION 5

Topic: UTILISING UNIVERSITY INVESTMENT FOR IMPROVED LEARNING & TEACHING OUTCOMES

Presenter: Dr. Ayooluwa Aregbesola, Ag. Director, Centre for Learning Resources

The presenter evaluated the current state of the University’s Learning Resources and the current use of investment. He stated that the proprietor base has made huge investments in our Learning Resources, and the use of the investments by students and other stakeholders is encouraging but does not effectively match the amount of investment. 

He identified challenges such as huge costs of subscriptions to online learning resources, limited resources, outdated facilities, and a growing student population, among others. He identified future (short-term and long-term) goals for the Center for Learning Resources, such as improved learning outcomes through technology integration, expanding access to digital learning resources, and becoming a leading world-class institution in innovative learning, among others. 

Dr. Ayooluwa Aregbesola also proposed the following strategic investments: virtual labs and simulation tools for STEM programs, state-of-the-art libraries, collaborative spaces, smart classrooms, and additional halls of residence to match the growing student population.

PRESENTATION 6

Topic: IMPROVING ACADEMIC QUALITY AND STANDARD OF LANDMARK – MATTERS ARISING

Presenter: Prof. Osemwegie, Osarenkhoe Omorefosa

The presentation focused on the importance of academic quality and standards in higher education, particularly at Landmark University. Prof. Osemwegie emphasized the need to maintain consistency in academic quality and standards for global competitiveness, institutional reputation, and student success. 

He identified the following challenges to academic quality and standards in higher education, resistance to new teaching models, lack of incentives affecting commitment, “Publish or perish” syndrome impacting lecture quality, and concerns about academically low-quality student intake, among others; and suggested the following instruments for improving academic quality and standards: regulatory framework, curriculum reform, research, innovation, and product development, among others. 

Particularly for Landmark University, Prof. Osemwegie proposed the following solutions: expand funding sources (consultancy, grants, venture services), encourage student participation in regional competitions, and regular curriculum review aligned with industry needs, among others. The presentation concluded by highlighting the importance of continuously improving academic quality and standards at Landmark University. He also stressed the need for a holistic approach involving various stakeholders and addressing multiple aspects of the academic environment.

PRESENTATION 7

Topic: STRATEGIES FOR SECURING COMPETITIVE GRANTS: PRACTICAL EXPERIENCES

Presenter: Dr. Adediran Adeolu, former Director of LUCRID/Dr. Isaac A. Oyekola, Department of Sociology, Landmark University

The presentation focused on practical strategies for securing competitive research grants, emphasizing the importance of knowledge and diligence in mastering the grant-writing process. 

The two presenters shared their personal experiences and advised every grant writer to first of all understand the expectations of the grant provider before writing their proposals. 

Dr. Oyekola thoroughly explained the key components of a competitive grant proposal and singled out key strategies for securing competitive grants. He concluded by emphasizing the importance of diligence in grant writing, quoting a proverb about diligence leading to success. The presentation concluded with an encouraging message: “You Will Surely Win!”

PRESENTER 8

Topic: COURSE COMPACTS, GRADING, AND VETTING PROCESSES AT LANDMARK UNIVERSITY

Presenter: Prof. S. J. Adebiyi, Director, Academic Planning

The presentation focused on the importance of course compacts, fair and consistent grading practices, and thorough vetting processes in maintaining academic standards and integrity at Landmark University. Prof. Adebiyi outlined the key components of course compacts as follows: general information, course details/assessment plan, lecture content, reading lists, and certification segment; and stressed the importance of aligning learning outcomes with programme objectives. 

He also talked about the grading system, vetting process, identified the current challenges we currently face; and given those challenges, he identified the following strategies to address them such as regular training for faculty on grading practices, implementing a robust digital grading system, and establishing clear timelines for grade submission, among others.

DAY 2

This second day of the Faculty Executive Advance programme built upon the foundation laid on the first day, delving deeper into specific areas crucial for the university’s growth and excellence in the rapidly evolving landscape of higher education.

The second day of the programme saw a series of high-level presentations and discussions focusing on critical aspects of academic leadership, teaching quality, industry partnerships, curriculum development, and technological integration. This report provides a comprehensive overview of the day’s proceedings, offering in-depth analysis and insights from each presentation.

Other than the presentations, one of the high points of the day, just as the previous day, was the question and answer/interactive sessions that yielded quality ideas, comments, and suggestions from participants. 

Below is the summary of the presentations

PRESENTATION 9 – A joint session with Covenant University

Topic: The Core and Compliments 

Presenter: Bishop David Oyedepo, The Chancellor

The Chancellor’s soul-stirring teaching centered on the critical importance of identifying and focusing on one’s core tasks and responsibilities. This session provided valuable insights into the foundational principles of effective leadership and the pursuit of one’s purpose in life.

He emphasized the necessity for leaders to distinguish between their core responsibilities and complementary activities. This differentiation is crucial, especially in an academic setting like ours where faculty members often juggle multiple responsibilities. According to him, by clearly delineating core tasks from complimentary ones, leaders can ensure they allocate their time and resources most effectively.

In his conclusion, the Chancellor declared that “all men of impact invest behind the scenes to make an impact in life, as the investment in the secret is what manifests in the open as impact.” He ended by emphasizing the virtue of self-discipline and that “no world-changer lives a normal life or runs a normal schedule as success in life can only happen at the platform of discipline in the pursuit of one’s “core”.”

PRESENTATION 10

Topic: SUSTAINING AND IMPROVING TEACHING QUALITY IN LANDMARK UNIVERSITY 

Presenter: Prof John Ojediran, The Deputy Vice-Chancellor

The presentation addressed the critical issue of maintaining and enhancing teaching quality within Landmark University. This session provided a comprehensive overview of strategies to improve pedagogical practices and student learning outcomes. He started by re-emphasizing the tripartite mandate of every tertiary institution which are Teaching, Research, and Community Impact. He proceeded to explain key strategies for improving teaching quality at LMU and highlighted the benefits of improved teaching quality. 

The presentation concluded by emphasizing that teaching quality is the cornerstone of world-class education. Hence, having quality course design, lecture delivery, and continuous assessments are strategies to maintain and enhance teaching effectiveness.

PRESENTATION 11

Topic: NEW NUC CCMAS IMPLEMENTATION: MATTERS ARISING 

Presenter: Prof. Adejumoke Inyinbor, Director, University Wide Courses

The presentation focused on the implementation of the new National Universities Commission (NUC) Core Curriculum and Minimum Academic Standards (CCMAS) at Landmark University. This session provided crucial insights into the journey this far, and the challenges and opportunities presented by this significant curricular reform.

She explained the rationale for CCMAS Implementation which included the need for the rapid revitalization of the Nigerian University System and the need for regular curriculum updates to reflect changing societal needs and global trends in various disciplines; proceeded to describe LMU’s CCMAS Development and Implementation journey by stating that the university’s proactive approach in implementing CCMAS for the 2023/2024 freshmen demonstrates its commitment to staying at the forefront of educational reforms; and encountered in the implementation. 

The successful implementation, despite challenges, indicates Landmark University’s adaptability and dedication to improving academic standards.

PRESENTATION 12:

Topic: BUILDING SUSTAINABLE INDUSTRY PARTNERSHIP: LESSONS FROM WORLD-CLASS UNIVERSITIES; INSIGHTS AND STRATEGIES FOR EFFECTIVE COLLABORATION 

Presenter: Prof. E.S.A. Ajisegiri, Dean, College of Engineering 

The presentation focused on building sustainable industry partnerships and provided valuable insights into how Landmark University can enhance its collaboration with both the private and public sectors. By examining case studies from world-class universities, the presentation offered a roadmap for developing robust and mutually beneficial industry relationships. 

Prof. Ajisegiri emphasized the role and importance of Industry Partnerships and stated that the survival of the university system is hinged on the need to have industrial partnerships thereby underscoring the need for Landmark University to prioritize and strategically develop its industry relationships. He identified the benefits of sustainable partnership as enhanced research capabilities, increased funding opportunities, improved educational outcomes, and societal impact and highlighted three (3) strategies for building sustainable partnerships which are establishing clear governance structures, developing long-term plans, and fostering a culture of collaborations.

The Vice-Chancellor, in responding to a question from a participant, advised faculty and staff to seek out collaborations and pursue them to a productive conclusion because it is not only the University that benefits from collaborations; the person who attracts the collaboration also does. 

PRESENTATION 13

Topic: REBRANDING LANDMARK’S TOWN-GOWN AGRIPRENEURIAL MANDATE FOR IMPROVED OUTCOME 

Presenter: Prof. Charity Aremu, Director, AADC

The presentation focused on rebranding Landmark University’s agripreneurial initiatives and provided a comprehensive overview of the institution’s efforts to promote agriculture among the younger generation and its impact on both the university and the wider community. She emphasized that Agripreneurship is the brainchild of the Chancellor and is borne out of a passion to promote the acceptance of the practice of Agric by the younger generation. 

The presentation highlighted AADC’s philosophy and goals which included the fact that Agriculture and its related business is a God-given profession, Agriculture can actively engage the youths and Agriculture is the solution to hunger. The presentation delved into the current status of AADC initiatives, highlighting the approval of 23 modules and 15 enterprises which indicates a comprehensive and diverse approach to agricultural education. Student registration for enterprises of their choice suggests a flexible, student-centered learning model that can enhance engagement and outcomes. 

Proposed improvements and plans include, enhanced irrigation facilities, focus on mandate crops and animals, development of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), serving as Agricultural Consultants, and working on a five-year strategic plan for AADC operations.

PRESENTATION 14: 

Topic: ACCEPTABLE ASSESSMENT MODELS IN LANDMARK UNIVERSITY FOR IMPROVED STUDENT PERFORMANCE 

Presenter: Prof. Ben-Caleb Egbide, Dean CBS

This was part sole presentation and part interaction. The presentation pointed out that assessment is a crucial component of any educational system serving as a tool for measuring students’ learning as well as providing feedback. Prof. Ben-Caleb also asserted that effective assessment practices can significantly improve students’ performance. He explained the types of assessments and their relevance in improving teaching and learning efficiency. 

This was followed by an Interactive & Q/A session that saw faculty and staff suggests ways to improve assessment models used in Landmark University, such as reducing the length of time spent on theoretical engagements in 3-unit courses to 2 hours and then utilise the remaining 1 hour for practical; more regular student assessment, giving feedbacks to assessments soon as possible, etc. 

PRESENTATION 15

Topic: SUSTAINABLE AND RESPONSIBLE USE OF GENERATIVE AI FOR IMPACTFUL RESEARCH AND TEACHING 

Presenter: Dr IGBEKELE EMMANUEL

The presenter defined AI as “the ability of a digital computer or a computer-controlled robot to perform tasks commonly associated with intelligent beings.” He proceeded to highlight and explain both the pros and cons of Generative AI in teaching and research. The presenter went ahead to explain the three (3) P’s of sustainable use of AI which are policy, procedure, and practice as well as how to ensure the responsible use of Gen-AI. 

In his conclusion, the presenter emphasized yet again that we cannot fully remove humans from academic works or research and AI can only be of help both in teaching and research. He advised faculty to use AI, but they must do so ethically and responsibly.

DAY 3

This third day of the Faculty Executive Advance programme saw a series of high-level presentations and discussions focusing on building corporate values such as discipline and conduct, the culture of integrity and communication which are fundamental to sustaining our world-class profile and reputation. 

Like the other days, there were question-and-answer/interactive sessions that yielded valuable ideas and suggestions from participants. 

Below is the summary of the presentations:

PRESENTATION 16 – A joint session with Covenant University

Topic: THE MAN CALLED TIME

Presenter: Bishop David Oyedepo, The Chancellor

First of all, this was a presentation that moved the whole audience. It was like nothing we had ever heard before. It was powerful and arousing. The Chancellor’s presentation focused on the concept of time as a crucial factor in personal and professional success. He personified time and emphasized his importance and impact on human life and achievements. The Chancellor identified Time as a valuable business partner in all life’s pursuits and stressed the need for proper engagement with time in other to achieve breakthroughs and success.

He elaborated on the characteristics of Time, factors that constitute time abuse, the role of Time in success, and the strategies for effective time management. He further emphasized the use of time in academic and professional settings, and elaborated on what he called the cultural perspectives of time, which makes certain people in certain cultural contexts waste Time and take him for granted; while others in different contexts are accustomed to maximizing Time.

In conclusion, the Chancellor contextualized the relationship between time and success, and noted that success at a slow rate is “glorified failure.” He urged us to make the most of our time, stressing that life has “no return match” and that everyone has something definite to contribute to life.

PRESENTATION 17

Topic: BUILDING AND SUSTAINING A CULTURE OF ACADEMIC INTEGRITY AT LANDMARK

Presenter: Professor Kolawole O. Ajanaku, The Vice-Chancellor, of Landmark University

The presentation focused on the importance of academic integrity in higher education, particularly at Landmark University. Prof. Ajanaku emphasized the need for a culture of integrity among faculty and staff. In demonstrating the concept of integrity, with reference to Proverbs 18:9. He explored elements of academic integrity, ethical considerations vis-à-vis the need for values and ethical awareness, the importance of a coherent and consistent code of conduct, and recognition of ethical dilemmas in the workplace. He spoke about measuring academic integrity using the THE University function which specifies Teaching (30%), Research (30%), Community Service (30%), International Outlook (7.5%), and Industry Income (2.5%). To what extent do we effectively adhere to these functions, and not waste our Time as The Chancellor has admonished? 

He called for personal accountability and adherence to rules and the value of integrity, focused on results rather than activities, and stressed the importance of living for impact and being role models for future leaders. The Vice Chancellor concluded by emphasizing the responsibility of faculty and staff in grooming new generations of leaders and the potential he sees in the Landmark University community.

PRESENTATION 18

Topic: ENGAGING EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION TOOLS FOR ACHIEVING ORGANISATIONAL STABILITY AND WORKPLACE INTER-RELATIONS

Presenter: Engr. Bayo Ajala, Registrar, Landmark University

The presentation focused on the importance of effective communication in achieving organizational stability and enhancing workplace inter-relations. Engr. Ajala emphasized the need for improved communication skills among faculty and staff. The key concepts addressed in the presentation include communication, elements of effective communication, goals of communication, communication media, and patterns of communication in organizations such as formal and informal as well as vertical and horizontal. He further discussed principles of effective organizational communication, barriers to effective organizational communication, and how to overcome them. 

In conclusion, Engr. Ajala highlighted the significance of both formal and informal communication in organizations and emphasized the need for monitoring informal communication to prevent misinformation and maintain organizational trust and clarity.

PRESENTATION 19

Topic: PROMOTING AND ENFORCING DISCIPLINE AND GOOD CONDUCT AMONG LANDMARK UNIVERSITY’S STUDENTS

Presenter: Dr. Oluyori Abimbola

The presentation focused on the importance of promoting and enforcing discipline among Landmark University (LMU) students. Dr. Abimbola emphasized the unique vision and mission of LMU and the responsibility it places on both students and staff. He elaborated on the promotion and enforcement of discipline. While highlighting the role of the University in society, he evaluated the current state of discipline at LMU with a significant percentage (96.16%) of students incurring no disciplinary action while a negligible percentage (3.84%) with disciplinary verdicts. He identified challenges such as stakeholder misalignment, wrong student perspectives, and poor attitude toward academic work. He underscored the factors that breed indiscipline such as societal influence, family background, and pre-conceived ideas about campus life, among others.

Dr. Abimbola outlined strategies for promoting and enforcing discipline such as obtaining parental cooperation, obtaining the cooperation of faculty and staff, work-away method, leadership by example, improved counseling services, and diverse spiritual interventions, among others.

He concluded with an analogy of a butterfly’s struggle to emerge from its cocoon, emphasizing the importance of allowing students to go through the “Landmark processing line” to avoid producing “defective products.” He stressed the need for a balanced approach to enforcing discipline while allowing students to develop naturally.

PRESENTATION 20

Topic: EFFICIENT ENGAGEMENT OF THE MOODLE PLATFORM (A break-out section, with faculty – the non-teaching staff had their session at the ICC)

Presenter: Olagunju Kazeem, i/c E-learning

The presentation focused on how faculty members can maximize Landmark University’s learning management system. The presenter decried the situation where the platform was grossly under-utilized last semester. He presented the analytics that shows usage according to colleges and programmes. He elaborated on the benefits of the management system and stressed that no world-class university or a university that aspires to be one shies away from university the management system.

The faculty members were trained on how to use Landmark University’s learning management system for teaching, assessment, and student engagement. 

The Vice Chancellor, adding his voice, emphasized that the University will drive compliance in using the LMU learning management system this session and in the future.

• The Vice Chancellor’s Closing Remarks

PRESENTATION 21/ IMPARTATION SESSION – a Joint session with Covenant University

Topic: SPIRITUALITY: THE GATEWAY TO INTELLECTUAL PROWESS

Presenter: Bishop David Oyedepo, The Chancellor

CLOSING