……..As committee submits report on upgrade
By Tolulope Eniola
Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has said that the proposed conversion of Rufus Giwa polytechnic, Owo into a University of Agriculture, Science and Technology will drive innovation and accelerate rural development in the state.
The governor stated this while receiving a comprehensive report from the committee tasked with developing a blueprint for the proposed institution.
Governor Aiyedatiwa noted that the transition from a polytechnic to a specialized agric-tech university aligns with the growing need to integrate science and technology into agriculture, describing it as a critical step toward enhancing food production and economic growth.
He emphasized that modern agriculture is increasingly driven by technology, including innovations such as artificial intelligence, which are essential for improving yields and efficiency.
Commending the committee for what he described as a thorough and well-researched report, the governor said the proposal covered key areas such as income generation, academic planning, campus development, and long-term sustainability.
He expressed confidence that, if fully implemented, the institution would not only be self-sustaining but also rank among the leading universities in Nigeria.
The governor further linked the initiative to broader national priorities, noting that agriculture, rural development, energy and water supply remain central to Nigeria’s development agenda.
According to him, establishing a university focused on agriculture, science and technology would equip students with practical knowledge while also supporting rural communities through innovation and research.
While indicating readiness to move to the implementation phase, Governor Aiyedatiwa stressed the need for a well-structured transition plan from the existing polytechnic system to the proposed university.
He urged stakeholders to ensure that students currently enrolled are not adversely affected, calling for a seamless process that would protect their academic progression.
He reiterated the state government’s commitment to leveraging education as a tool for development, expressing optimism that the proposed conversion would serve as a catalyst for innovation, job creation, and sustainable rural transformation.
Earlier, Chairman of the Committee and the State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun said the proposed University of Agriculture, Science and Technology, Owo (UNASTO), is designed to equip students with strong technical expertise and a solid academic foundation.
He emphasised that the institution will be research-driven, globally competitive, and practically oriented, reflecting Ondo State’s commitment to innovation and technological advancement.
The report outlined the proposed academic structure of the university, which will include faculties such as Agriculture and Natural Resources, Allied Health Sciences, Basic and Applied Sciences, Communication and Media Sciences, Computing and Digital Technology, Engineering Technology, Environmental Sciences, and Social and Management Sciences.
He also presented a detailed master plan, covering land use, infrastructure layout, and development frameworks, in line with the requirements of the National Universities Commission (NUC).
In addition, Ajibefun submitted a five-year strategic development plan and a sustainability framework to ensure the university’s financial viability.
The plan highlights the importance of diversified revenue streams, including tuition, internally generated revenue, and external partnerships, to support uninterrupted academic operations.
Recommendations were also made on staffing, advising assessment and retooling of existing polytechnic personnel to align with university standards, while ensuring smooth transition and settlement of outstanding liabilities.
Prof. Ajibefun noted that the next crucial step is the passage of an enabling law by the Ondo State House of Assembly and assent by Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, which will formally establish the university and enable submission of documentation to the NUC for official recognition.
He expressed its gratitude to the Governor for entrusting it with the task, describing the initiative as a strategic and forward-looking move that promises to create a hub of academic excellence, innovation, and sustainable development in Ondo State.
In attendance were; The Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami; Secretary to the State Government, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti; Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, Dr Akindele Ige.
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