The management of McPherson University, convened a meeting with all vendors operating within the University campus to review their activities and deliberate on issues since the commencement of the 2024/2025 academic session. The meeting aimed to strengthen collaboration between the university and its vendors while addressing concerns impacting the campus community.
In his address, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Francis Igbasan, encouraged vendors to maintain open communication with the university and adhere to policies governing their operations. He emphasized the need for vendors to ensure their facilities are closed at the appointed time to prevent students from loitering. He further urged them to speak up about any challenges they face to foster a supportive environment.
Professor Igbasan highlighted critical areas requiring attention, including the conduct of vendors and their workers. He warned against assisting students in breaking university rules, noting that offenders identified in such cases had been dealt with. He advised vendors to conduct thorough character assessments before hiring employees and cautioned younger vendors to maintain boundaries in their relationships with students.
Addressing concerns, the Vice-Chancellor condemned cases of extortion, where vendors reportedly charged excessive amounts at the expense of struggling parents. He described such practices as immoral and unacceptable. He also called on vendors to be exemplary in their behavior, particularly through appropriate dressing, which he said should reflect professionalism.
Further issues discussed included electricity bill payments, with vendors reminded of the need to pay promptly due to the university’s Band A electricity tariff. Failure to pay within three weeks would result in disconnection. Professor Igbasan also reiterated the importance of feedback, encouraging vendors to use available channels to communicate any challenges they encounter.
During the Q&A session, vendors raised concerns about electricity tariff changes, rent rate adjustments, and issues with the university’s water factory. Responding, the Acting Registrar, Mr. Olufemi Adebowale, clarified that the electricity tariff changes were based on a Federal Government directive and beyond the university’s control. He apologized for any miscommunication regarding rent increases and promised better communication in the future. Regarding water factory issues, he assured vendors that substandard bottle production and late deliveries would be resolved within two days.
The University Bursar, Mrs. Aderonke Olukemi, also addressed vendors, advising them to ensure proper documentation of all payments with the bursary office and retain evidence for future reference. The meeting concluded with management reaffirming its commitment to creating a conducive and collaborative environment for all stakeholders within the university community.