Ondo Assembly backs education reforms, pledges legislative support

By Precious Oluwole

The Ondo State House of Assembly Committee on Education, Science and Technology has pledged its unwavering support for ongoing reforms in the state’s education sector, promising to back transformative policies with enabling legislation.

Led by its Chairman, Hon. Kolawole Ologede, the committee made the commitment during a familiarization visit to the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology in Akure. The visit was aimed at aligning the legislature’s vision with that of the Ministry under the newly appointed Commissioner, Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun.

Commending Prof. Ajibefun’s appointment by Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, Hon. Ologede described it as “a round peg in a round hole,” noting that the Commissioner’s wealth of experience signaled a new era for education in the state.

“This visit is not for oversight, but to build synergy and express our shared commitment to repositioning the education sector. With Prof. Ajibefun at the helm, we are confident of a shift from business as usual to meaningful transformation,” Ologede stated.

He also raised concerns over rising cases of indiscipline, cultism, and digital distractions among students, urging immediate legislative and institutional action. The Chairman assured the Commissioner of the committee’s readiness to enact laws that will promote discipline and address the systemic challenges in the sector.

Other members of the committee, including the Vice Chairman and House Majority Leader, Hon. Chief Olatunji Oshati, expressed optimism about the Commissioner’s leadership. They emphasized the need for stronger monitoring systems, inter-departmental synergy, and optimal use of budgetary allocations to tackle foundational problems in the education system.

They also called for equitable implementation of reforms across the state, particularly in rural communities, through agencies like the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB). According to them, development must not be confined to urban centers alone.

In his remarks, Prof. Ajibefun welcomed the lawmakers and expressed gratitude for their support. He described the visit as strategic, reaffirming that education remains the most critical sector for the state’s long-term development.

“Our goal is to transform Ondo State’s education system to meet global standards. This cannot be achieved with outdated practices. We need reforms driven by collective action, innovative policies, and committed educators,” he said.

The Commissioner identified cultism, drug abuse, poor reading culture, and low teacher motivation as key concerns. He emphasized the need for discipline, reorientation, and improved infrastructure, particularly at the basic education level.

A former Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ajibefun pledged transparency and openness to collaboration with the legislature, stressing that the time for passive dialogue is over. Directors in the Ministry were also urged to develop bold, innovative policies to drive real change in the sector.