On a mission to empower future generations, Africa’s leading tech icon, philanthropist, and Chairman of Zinox Group, a major ICT conglomerate, has donated a state-of-the-art training centre to Imo State University (IMSU), Owerri and St. Augustine University Epe, Lagos State. Both centres named the Leo Stan Ekeh Foundation (LSEF) Centre was unveiled on Thursday, April 4, 2024, at a grand ceremony held at the respective institutions. The two events were graced by their respective Vice Chancellors, DVCs, Senate and Council Members and very esteemed academics of the respective institutions.
The LSEF Centre at Imo State University is poised to offer a range of training programs tailored to meet the evolving needs of today’s workforce. These programs include the Finishing School, Entrepreneurship Boost Training, and specialized courses in Technology and Artificial Intelligence. By equipping students with these essential skills, the centre aims to prepare them for success in their chosen fields and foster a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship.
The LSEF Centre in IMSU shall connect with accomplished private sector leaders across the world who will, with the power of technology deployed at the centre, inspire and instigate a successful revolution in Imo state. Selected students shall have the opportunity to develop well-rounded skill sets that will propel them towards success in their chosen career paths. The Vice Chancellor of IMSU Prof. U. U. Chukwumaeze (SAN) was full of praise for Dr. Leo Stan Ekeh for executing the futuristic knowledge centre. He also informed the full house how Dr. Ekeh intervenes every time they need help with the most recent support being a large number of computers for the institution to scale accreditation. Also, the Director of the LSEF Centre, Prof. Gloria Ernest Samuel said that Dr. Ekeh paid attention to details in setting up the Centre including chatting with her on Saturdays and Sundays.
“It was a privilege to experience this tech Entrepreneur,” she said, “He adds style to details, and this is why the feel of the centre is right. He will always stress that he was interested in content and not brick and mortar”.
The St. Augustine University Centre, Epe in Lagos is a great display of the power of technology equipped with top of the range All-in-One Zinox Computers, Tablets, Smart Boards and much more. In his vote of thanks at the launch of the Centre, The Vice- Chancellor – Prof Christopher Odetunde talked about spirituality of commitment from Dr. Leo Stan Ekeh to lift the younger ones. This was a recent promise kept beyond our expectation and prayed that the country should be filled with persons like Dr. Ekeh.
Chairman of Board of Trusties of the institution Dr. Steve Omojiafor who recounted Dr. Ekeh quiet style of interventions said he was sure Dr. Ekeh would remember the institutions one day in his philanthropic ventures. He also stated that he was very happy and prayed God to continue to bless Dr. Ekeh even more.
The most interesting part of commissioning the two centres same day, within the same time was the use of quality Artificial Intelligence deployed at these centres and remotely powered from Zinox Group Headquarters (Yudala Heights) on Idowu Martins street, Victoria Island where Dr. Ekeh delivered his short speeches. He was consistent with his statement about his determination to build a new generation of Nigerians who will have the capacity to alter their destinies and defend their wealth. He also assured the management of both institutions that he shall turnaround the centres in two years as completed AI powered units such that every student before matriculation must spend eights hours at these centres.
Leo Stan Ekeh’s philanthropic gesture underscores his unwavering commitment to advancing education and empowering the youth. Through the LSEF Centre, he seeks to provide students with access to high-quality training and mentorship, thereby enabling them to unleash their full potential and contribute meaningfully to society.
Leo Stan Ekeh is a true pioneer in the Nigerian and African technology space. He has earned an indelible reputation for his visionary leadership and dedication to advancing the continent’s digital infrastructure. His accomplishments extend far beyond the LSEF Centre donation. Notably, Mr. Ekeh spearheaded the team that delivered the largest single ICT project in Africa, a testament to his unwavering commitment to technological advancement.
As the chairman of Zinox Group, Africa’s largest ICT conglomerate, he has spearheaded numerous groundbreaking initiatives which have revolutionized the continent’s technological landscape. Mr. Ekeh is a renowned philanthropist and a strong advocate for youth empowerment. Through the Leo Stan Ekeh Foundation, he actively supports initiatives that bridge the digital divide and equip young people with the skills they need to thrive in the 21st century.
Speaking about the initiative, Leo Stan Ekeh expressed his profound belief in the power of education to transform lives and drive socio-economic development. He emphasized the importance of equipping students with relevant skills and competencies to thrive in today’s fast-paced world.
“This centre embodies my deep commitment to nurturing the talents of our young people. By equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge, we can empower them to become the architects of a brighter future for Nigeria and Africa,” he said.
Through this philanthropic initiative, Mr. Ekeh hopes to inspire a new generation of innovators and entrepreneurs. The LSEF Centre serves as a beacon of opportunity, empowering students at Imo State University to unlock their full potential and contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s future.
The establishment of the LSEF Centre marks a significant milestone in Imo State University’s journey towards academic excellence and innovation. As the university continues to strive for excellence, the LSEF Centre will serve as a beacon of hope and opportunity for generations of students to come.
