PROF. AKINPELU DIGITALIZING LASU (Climbing the Echelon of Success)

The jinx is broken, what seemed impossible is now part of history. With the burning desire to take LASU to the zenith of other tertiary institutions in Nigeria and the world at large, Prof. Biodun Akinpelu was handed his second bate as the Director, Centre for General Nigerian Studies (CGNS).He was the Director before the appointment of Prof. Lanre Fagbohun as LASU VC in 2015.Having understood the wealth of experience and knowledge in possession of this veteran (Prof. Akinpelu),the VC decided to place his last cash as bet on this man.

Just under two months in office, Prof. Akinpelu decided to ride upon the wings of wind by digitalizing the mode of writing examination in LASU. Starting with his core department CGNS, the digitalizing LASU movement is now a success as series of tests have been conducted to test the viability of the CBT mode introduced, all of which success is recorded. He had also suggested CBT mode to different departments and faculties in which Department of Science and Technology in Faculty of Education now emulates. The department is set to write its first digital examination with the current 300level students writing EST 305.

You can never be skeptical of the fact that impediment must surface in every success story. Digitalizing LASU is no exception as presumed impossibility by some stakeholders ranging from management to students is one of those impediments. Vision of success now bursts in our eyes and all is now a story.

The initiative initially looked like what should be termed _white elephant contract_ Where excess would be spent on something that will yield no dividend. The school, as proposed by some professionals needed over 1000to execute such project. But borrowing one of the accounting convention, *prudency* ,Prof. Akinpelu survey the school terrain and made do with the available computers, which are now doing the magic. Knowingly or unknowingly to Prof, he has managed to keep the school's expenditure within the session proposed budget, simultaneously cutting down the cost that would have been expended on OMR sheets and question papers in an economy like this where prices of commodities are sky rocketing.

The most astonishing of all is the _*brains behind the computers*_the ICT personnel, who are now optimally utilized. These set of professionals have been there for decade(s) or more with their know- how lying fallow. All thanks to Prof. He reignited their beliefs and reassured their competence.

Finally, for the students who have been clamouring for immediate release of their scores after the exercise, this may be impossible for now as it may have detrimental effects on some students who are yet to girt up their loins. I therefore hope to see improvements like this in all the departments of the institution. The development of LASU is my joy.

Congratulations to Prof. Biodun Akinpelu for a landmark achievement, congratulations to the VC and his unflinching team. Congratulations to LASU for the success.

To my colleagues writing examinations, I wish you success in your examinations. All the best! ............

Composed By. Sijuade Olushola Samson (SOS)