By DAYO ADESULU
Lagos, Nigeria — Dr. Ayo Ogunsan has been appointed to the Advisory Board of the Centre for African Social and Economic Transformation (CASET) at the University of the West of England (UWE), United Kingdom, in recognition of his contributions to education and development in Africa.
The appointment was confirmed in a letter by Jo Midgley, Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Registrar of UWE, who cited Ogunsan’s extensive experience in higher education leadership and his role as a Board Member of the Centre for Digital Humanities (CEDHUL) at the University of Lagos as key qualifications for the position.
Role and Expectations
As a CASET Advisory Board member, Ogunsan will help shape strategic initiatives, stakeholder engagement, and research-driven policies aimed at addressing Africa’s socio-economic challenges. The Centre focuses on transformative education, capacity building, and evidence-based policymaking.
Midgley stated that Ogunsan’s expertise will be invaluable in fostering collaborations to advance CASET’s mission. The Board meets annually, with sessions held virtually or in-person at UWE or African locations where feasible.
Ogunsan’s Background in Education and Development
A longtime advocate for ‘accessible education’, Ogunsan serves as ‘Chairman of AKEM Foundation’, a nonprofit that has ‘funded schools and NGOs’ supporting underprivileged children in Nigeria. He is also a ”Board Member of the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF)**, blending interests in ‘security, entrepreneurship, and education”.
His appointment begins in June 2025 for a three-year, non-remunerated term, renewable based on performance.
CASET’s Mission
CASET, aligned with UWE’s emphasis on enterprise and collaboration, aims to empower African communities through education, research, and partnerships. Midgley noted that CASET seeks practical solutions to regional challenges and welcomed Ogunsan’s insights as a thought leader.
Ogunsan’s career trajectory—from adversity to prominence—has been widely recognized in Nigeria’s education and security sectors.
