The Head of the Department of Physiotherapy and the Dean of Clinical Sciences at the College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, have applauded alumni and well-meaning individuals for supporting indigent students through the institution’s “Sponsor A Student Programme (SASP).”
Speaking during the induction Ceremony of UI-PT, Class of 2026, the university authorities described the initiative as a lifeline for financially challenged students, particularly those in clinical programmes who often struggle to balance academics with survival.
According to the Dean, the awards under the SASP initiative were designed to provide financial assistance to deserving students while encouraging a culture of giving back among alumni of the institution.
Special recognition was given to Dr. Olatunji Gbotoso, a 1991 alumnus of the Physiotherapy programme, for his remarkable contributions to the college. The university disclosed that Dr. Gbotoso had donated over ₦10 million towards the ICOMAA hostel project and also pledged ₦1 million annually to sponsor one physiotherapy student and one medical student through school.
“We are particularly grateful to Dr. Olatunji Gbotoso for his generous donation towards the hostel project and for supporting both a physiotherapy student and a medical student through the Sponsor A Student Programme,” the Dean stated.
Addressing the students, the university management urged them to cultivate the spirit of giving back to society and their alma mater after graduation.
“You cannot be clinical students and be selling akara or doing decorations just to survive. Some of our students come from difficult backgrounds, and this initiative is helping to keep them in school,” the Dean said.
The institution also announced that eight physiotherapy students benefitted from fresh sponsorship awards donated by alumni and other benefactors.
Dr. Gbotoso, who joined the programme virtually from the United States, was described as a distinguished physiotherapist, healthcare administrator, pastor, and entrepreneur. After graduating from the University of Ibadan, he relocated to the United States in 1995 where he obtained a doctorate in Physical Therapy and established a successful healthcare practice.
He is the founder and Medical Director of Revival Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Services with branches across New York and other parts of the United States. Beyond healthcare, he is also a real estate investor and co-founder of the Olatunji and Kikelomo Gbotoso Foundation.
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The university noted that through the foundation, Dr. Gbotoso has sponsored WAEC and JAMB examination fees for underprivileged students, awarded scholarships to university students and orphans, and empowered youths with vocational equipment.
“One thing about him is that he is a man of many dimensions,” the speaker noted, adding that his life exemplifies the impact alumni can make by supporting future generations.
The Dean further stressed that giving back is not necessarily about wealth but about willingness and compassion.
“Dollar does not flow on the streets. It takes a lot to earn a single dollar. It is not because they have, but because they have the mind to give,” the Dean remarked.
The event ended with a renewed call on graduates of the institution to emulate Dr. Gbotoso’s example by supporting educational development and helping students achieve their academic dreams.
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