Covenant University’s ongoing partnerships with prestigious organizations continue to yield positive results. Recently, two of its key partners, Interswitch and CISCO, made significant contributions to the university by donating digital switches. The donation was part of an ongoing effort to give back to the institution and enhance its technological capabilities.

During a brief courtesy meeting with the university management, held in the Vice-Chancellor’s office, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor Lanre Amodu, represented the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Timothy A. Anake. In his address, Professor Amodu expressed excitement about the positive impact that partnerships with highly innovative companies like Interswitch and CISCO are having on the students of Covenant University. He highlighted how the training provided through the CISCO Academy is equipping students with the skills necessary for immediate employment upon graduation, explaining that this is a key reason why Covenant University graduates are among the most sought-after in Nigeria's labor market.

Further, Professor Amodu praised the partners’ commitment to promoting homegrown technology in their products and projects, aligning with Covenant University’s core strategy as envisioned by the Chancellor, Dr. David Oyedepo. According to Dr. Oyedepo, "It doesn’t have to be from the white man for it to be right." This philosophy encourages the development of original African solutions that the world can learn from. Professor Amodu commended Interswitch and CISCO for their innovative contributions across the country, emphasizing that Covenant University is proud to be associated with them. He also expressed his gratitude for the donated digital switches, noting that they will significantly benefit students and enhance their learning experience.

Professor Amodu assured the partners that the donated equipment would be put to immediate use, supporting hands-on training for students. He referenced the Director of the Centre for Systems and Information Services (CSIS), who shared how her own hands-on training as a student at Covenant University had been instrumental in her career. Additionally, he noted that several Covenant University graduates are now working at CISCO and Interswitch, indicating that both companies are already reaping the rewards of their investment in the university’s students.

Acknowledging the importance of these donations, Professor Amodu told the partners, "By donating these tools, you’re also investing in your future workforce. These students will carry the flag of the university and contribute to your companies as interns and employees." He expressed appreciation for their forward-thinking investment in the technological future of Nigeria and Africa.

Earlier, Mr. Elohor Okimah, Regional Head of Sales at CISCO, thanked Covenant University for being a valued partner, commending the students who have interned or worked with the company. He also highlighted the students’ impressive performances in various competitions, noting the exceptional quality of Covenant University graduates compared to their peers from other institutions.

The university's Registrar, Mr. Emmanuel Igban, also expressed deep appreciation for the growing partnership between Covenant University, CISCO, and Interswitch. He noted that the partnership is not only benefiting students but also contributing to the wider development of STEM talent in Nigeria. He specifically thanked Interswitch for its robust Corporate Social Responsibility efforts, including the Spark Programme, which identifies and nurtures talent in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) among secondary school students. Mr. Igban shared a personal connection to the program, as his son had benefited from an early edition, which had significantly influenced his educational journey.

Mr. Igban also praised the donation, noting that it would greatly enhance students' skills by providing access to state-of-the-art equipment. He emphasized that this contribution will play a crucial role in bridging the technological gap between Africa and the highly developed West, ensuring the development of world-class engineers and technologists.

The meeting concluded with the formal presentation of the digital switches to the Covenant University management team, including Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Lanre Amodu, Registrar Mr. Emmanuel Igban, Director of Financial Services Pastor Joel Audu, and Director of CSIS Mrs. Priscilla Ajayi.