Governor Seyi Makinde on Friday inaugurated governing councils for two Oyo universities today, reinforcing educational advancement and institutional governance across the state.
Abiola Ajimobi Technical University’s council, chaired by Dr. Adesola Kazeem Adeduntan, includes academics like Professor Adesola Ajayi and ministry officials.
LAUTECH’s council, led by Professor Ayodeji Oludare Omole, features Deputy Vice Chancellors focused on strategy, innovation, and academic development.
During the Abuja ceremony, Makinde emphasized selecting seasoned professionals to drive excellence in technical and technological education statewide.
“These councils will elevate our universities, ensuring graduates meet global standards,” Makinde declared, underscoring his administration’s commitment to progress.
Education stakeholders applauded the appointments, anticipating improved governance, research output, and industry-aligned curricula in both institutions.
The Technical University’s council prioritizes innovation and aims to bridge skill gaps through partnerships with various tech industries.
Additionally, LAUTECH’s team plans to strengthen research infrastructure while fostering collaborations to tackle pressing technological and societal challenges.
Moreover, Permanent Secretaries from the Education and Finance ministries will join both councils, aligning academic goals with state policies.
Professor Adesola Ajayi, Vice Chancellor of Abiola Ajimobi Technical University, vowed to advance Makinde’s vision for practical, job-ready education.
Similarly, LAUTECH’s Vice Chancellor Professor R. O. R. Kalilu pledged to enhance academic rigor and global competitiveness.
Parents and students welcomed the move, hoping for upgraded facilities and expanded access to quality higher education.
Experts urge the councils to address funding gaps and attract private-sector investments for sustainable growth.
Makinde’s administration recently increased education funding, reflecting broader efforts to position Oyo as Nigeria’s innovation epicenter.
These councils mark a strategic step toward modernizing curricula, improving faculty retention, and boosting institutional rankings.
Challenges such as outdated infrastructure and faculty shortages continue to persist, urgently needing attention from newly inaugurated bodies.
However, optimism prevails among stakeholders, who trust the councils’ expertise to effectively navigate these complexities and deliver tangible results.
As both universities embrace this new chapter, collaboration between academia and industry will likely enhance and accelerate development significantly.
The governor’s focus on governance underscores his belief in education as a catalyst for socioeconomic transformation.
With these councils operational, Oyo State inches closer to becoming a benchmark for academic excellence in Nigeria.