In a significant development for the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomoso, Governor Seyi Makinde has approved the appointment of Professor Razaq Olatunde Rom Kalilu as the substantive Vice Chancellor.
The announcement was made via a statement issued by the Commissioner for Education, Science, and Technology, Prof. Salihu Abdulwaheed Adelabu, and disseminated to the press in Ibadan on Tuesday.
The statement confirmed that Prof. Kalilu will assume the role for a single term of five years, commencing on June 12, 2024. Governor Makinde expressed confidence in Prof. Kalilu’s capabilities, citing his extensive experience and commitment to excellence, which align with the government’s mission for LAUTECH.
Prof. Razaq Kalilu is a distinguished scholar in the fields of art and art history, with a career at LAUTECH spanning over three decades. He began his tenure at the university on September 1, 1992, and achieved the rank of Professor on October 1, 1999. Most recently, he has been serving as Acting Vice-Chancellor since June 12, 2023.
An alumnus of the University of Ife and the University of Ibadan, Prof. Kalilu is renowned for his expertise in Form and Material Technology. His administrative prowess is well-documented, having held several key positions within LAUTECH.
These include Head of the Department of Fine and Applied Arts (1998-2003), Dean of the Faculty of Environmental Sciences (2003-2006, 2012-2016), Chairman of the Committee of Deans (2004), and Deputy Vice-Chancellor (2006-2008).
Prof. Kalilu’s illustrious career is marked by numerous accolades. He won the Gold Medal in the 1978-1979 All Africa Painting Contest and has been recognized internationally, including Elected Membership of the New York Academy of Sciences for his contributions to Science and Technology.
His other honors include the Merit Prize in the 1997 International Postage Stamp Design Contest, the Outstanding Achievement Medal from the Outstanding People of the 20th Century in 2000, and the Twentieth Century Achievement Award in 2001. Notably, he was named one of the 1000 Leaders of World Influence for the 21st century in 2000 and received the Development in Nigeria Merit Award in 2006.
Prof. Kalilu is an active member of several academic and professional organizations, including the Australian Ceramic Society, the International Association of Astronomical Artists, and the Society of Nigerian Artists, where he holds the title of Fellow. Additionally, he serves as a Justice of the Peace in Oyo State.
A native of Ogbomoso, Prof. Kalilu is married with children, balancing his professional achievements with a dedicated family life.
The Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology, through Prof. Adelabu, officially signed off on the announcement, looking forward to the continued advancement and growth of LAUTECH under Prof. Kalilu’s leadership.
