PIONEER BURSAR OF MOUNTAIN TOP UNIVERSITY RETIRES AFTER A DECADE OF DISTINGUISHED SERVICE
PIONEER BURSAR OF MOUNTAIN TOP UNIVERSITY RETIRES AFTER A DECADE OF DISTINGUISHED SERVICE
After a decade of exemplary service marked by dedication, integrity, and strategic leadership, Mr Shola Rotimi Olagundoye, the pioneer Bursar of Mountain Top University (MTU), formally retired on 27 February 2026. He was honoured at a well-attended send forth ceremony celebrating his remarkable contributions to the financial stability and institutional growth of the University.
Mr Olagundoye, a distinguished financial administrator and seasoned public sector professional, served as Bursar from March 2016 to February 2026. As the first occupant of the office, he laid the foundational financial structures upon which the University continues to thrive. Drawing on his prior experience as a Director of Finance at a federal parastatal, he assumed office at a time when the University’s financial system was still evolving. Through visionary leadership, meticulous planning, and disciplined implementation, he transformed the nascent structure into a sustainable, transparent, and accountable financial system.
Widely regarded as a master of strategic budgeting and prudent resource allocation, Mr Olagundoye worked closely with the University Management to ensure that limited resources were carefully prioritised and effectively deployed. His leadership entrenched a culture of fiscal responsibility across departments and strengthened the institution’s long term financial sustainability.
His foresight was particularly evident during the global COVID 19 pandemic in 2020. While many higher institutions grappled with financial instability and workforce reductions, Mountain Top University remained resilient. The proactive risk management strategies and financial safeguards he had instituted enabled the University to retain its staff and maintain operational stability during a period of global uncertainty.
Beyond institutional finance, Mr Olagundoye demonstrated a deep commitment to social responsibility. He strengthened support mechanisms for indigent students through the “A Thousand Per Head” initiative, which encouraged voluntary staff contributions to assist financially challenged students in accessing quality education. The initiative reflected his belief that sound financial management must ultimately serve people.
Throughout his tenure, he maintained strict adherence to government regulations, statutory requirements, and tax compliance obligations, thereby safeguarding the University’s credibility and reinforcing its institutional reputation.
A firm believer in capacity building, Mr Olagundoye invested significantly in human capital development within the Bursary Department. He consistently encouraged staff members to pursue professional advancement and provided mentorship that yielded tangible results. Notably, two members of the Bursary staff attained chartered accountant status during his tenure.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Elijah Ayolabi, commended Mr Olagundoye for his unwavering institutional loyalty and dependable leadership over the past decade. He described him as “a pillar of financial integrity and a trusted partner in progress”, noting that the policies and systems he established would continue to sustain the University for years to come.
“Mr Olagundoye’s service was marked not merely by numbers balanced and reports rendered, but by trust earned and confidence inspired,” the Vice Chancellor stated. “In seasons of challenge and opportunity alike, he stood firm, steady in counsel, meticulous in execution, and loyal to the vision of the University. Beyond his office, he has been a dependable colleague and a gentleman of admirable character, whose humility and dedication have left an enduring imprint on our community.”
In his tribute, the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Professor Gabriel O. Ajayi, celebrated Mr Olagundoye’s outstanding career and described his dedication to service at MTU as second to none. He praised him as “a guiding light for students and staff” and wished him a retirement filled with joy, rest, and cherished memories.
The Registrar also reflected on the profound personal and professional impact of Mr Olagundoye’s stewardship, commending his calm disposition, prudence, humility, and professionalism. He noted that beyond systems, policies, and balanced accounts, the retiring Bursar leaves behind a legacy of integrity, discipline, and dignified leadership.
Similarly, the University Librarian, Dr (Mrs) Helen O. Akinade, expressed gratitude for his fatherly presence within the Management team, describing him as gentle, patient, and meticulous in his professional conduct. She highlighted his commitment to accuracy and due diligence in all financial approvals, describing it as both exemplary and inspiring.
Several other members of the University community offered tributes, consistently emphasising his calmness, supportive leadership style, fatherly disposition, and genuine care for colleagues. The recurring themes in their remarks underscored the deep respect and affection he earned during his ten years of service.
As part of the ceremony, various departments presented gifts to the outgoing Bursar in appreciation of his invaluable contributions. He was formally presented with an Award of Excellence in Service by the Vice Chancellor and was further honoured as an Ambassador of Mountain Top University.
Mr Shola Rotimi Olagundoye’s retirement marks the close of a defining chapter in the financial history of Mountain Top University. His legacy endures not only in balanced accounts and structured systems, but in strengthened people, institutional resilience, and a culture of accountability that will continue to guide the University into the future.