A request for laboratory access, library resources, conference participation and student engagement opportunities was at the heart of a courtesy visit by the Vice Chancellor of Venite University, Iloro Ekiti, Professor Charity Aremu, to the Federal University Oye Ekiti (FUOYE), where she sought strategic collaboration with Vice Chancellor Professor Joshua Olalekan Ogunwole.

Leading her delegation, Professor Aremu stated that the visit was intended to open doors for meaningful academic partnerships, particularly in the medical sciences. "We are here to explore ways of advancing our academic endeavours. This courtesy visit is not just symbolic; it is intended to open doors for meaningful collaboration. We want to lean on your shoulders as we build and expand our academic programmes, particularly in the medical sciences," she stated.

On laboratory access, Aremu noted that Venite University is yet to acquire essential equipment and technologies, appealing for opportunities for its students to access FUOYE facilities for research and analysis. She also appealed for cooperation in library resources, stating that "your university benefits from TETFund support and has a rich repository of academic materials. We are hopeful that through collaboration, whether by donation, loan, or shared access to e resources, our institution can benefit immensely."

Professor Aremu further requested that Venite University staff be given opportunities to participate in FUOYE conferences at subsidised rates, noting that young lecturers need exposure through research engagements and academic activities. She also expressed interest in joint academic, social and sporting activities between students of both institutions.

FUOYE Vice Chancellor Professor Ogunwole warmly received the delegation, remarking with wit that "when 'Charity' comes seeking charity, there must indeed be an atmosphere of generosity." He assured the delegation of FUOYE's willingness to collaborate, noting that "universities have a duty to support one another through collaboration, knowledge sharing, and capacity building." He disclosed plans to donate books to Venite University and directed the University Registrar, Mr. Mufutau Ibrahim, to set up a committee to review all areas discussed and ensure actionable outcomes.

Following the meeting, the delegation was conducted on a guided tour of the university, visiting laboratories in the Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences and the Faculty of Pharmacy, where they expressed satisfaction with the quality of facilities and noted their intention to replicate similar standards at Venite University.