KWASU ‘ll promote cycling as part of its ‘Green Initiative’, says VC

*Flags off 43-kilometre bicycle ride

By Stephen Olufemi Oni, Ilorin

The Kwara state University (KWASU), Malete in Moro local government area of the state has blazed the trail in the promotion of the use of bicycles by members of the University Community within and around the institution.

The bold move to promote cycling among members of KWASU Community, according to the Ivory Tower, was intended to drastically reduce carbon emission from vehicles and promote other healthy alternatives.

Flagging off the initiative, KWASU in collaboration with a private organisation, the Royal Media Group, has organised a 43-kilometre bicycle ride from Ilorin, the Kwara state capital, to the Malete campus of the University to create awareness on the benefits and importance of using bicycles by the people of the state.

Saturday Telegraph’s checks revealed that the University has a cycling club with a registration strength of over 500 to encourage the learning of the skill and as an exercise alternative among staff and students. It was further gathered that the University is encouraging its students to own bicycles, while the Institution provides support in terms of bicycle lanes and holding areas for the bicycles.

The Vice Chancellor of the University, Professor Muhammed Mustapha Akanbi SAN, while receiving the cyclists and other cycling enthusiasts after the ride from Ilorin to the campus, stressed the need for Universities to take the lead in solving societal challenges.

He commended the President of Royal Media Group, Engineer Gbenga Adebayo, for leading the team of cyclists on the 43- kilometre awareness ride and for also taking the commendable step to collaborate with the University in the RIDE FOR LIFE initiative, among other areas of collaboration.

Professor Akanbi described cycling as one of the practices which the University would be promoting as part of its ‘GREEN INITIATIVE’ and contribution to sustaining the environment, while ensuring healthier life styles among the University community.

On his part, the President of Royal Media Group, Engineer Gbenga Adebayo, stressed the need for the private sector to partner with Institutions of higher learning in various areas towards enhancing the nation.

While lauding the Kwara State University for the bold step of restricting students from bringing automobiles into the campus, Adebayo said that his organisation would continue to support the drive of the University.

The RIDE FOR LIFE event saw students and staff of the Institution coming out in their numbers to be part of the event.

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