By Akinsuroju Olubunmi
Investment in Education: Ondo Governor allocates N1.2bn for University projects
In a move to bolster education infrastructure and recognize academic excellence, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has greenlit a N1.2 billion grant for Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology, Okitipupa (OAUSTECH). The funding aims to breathe life into stalled projects across the university campus, particularly focusing on completing the School of Science buildings and other abandoned structures. Addressing attendees at the institution’s second convocation ceremony, Governor Aiyedatiwa, who also serves as the Visitor to the university, emphasized the importance of education and pledged ongoing support to enhance operations. Among the notable announcements was the provision of automatic employment for Miss Adedayo Janet, the top-performing graduate at the university.
“I am specially honored to address this second Convocation. This marks my historic and inaugural attendance as the Visitor to the university, since my assumption of office in the last 69 days,” Governor Aiyedatiwa remarked. He highlighted the strategic significance of the forthcoming School of Maritime Transport and Logistics in Ugbonla, noting its potential synergy with the Ondo State Deep Seaport Project and the broader Blue Economy development agenda.
The governor underscored his administration’s commitment to education by earmarking a monthly subvention of N91 million to bolster the university’s operations. Furthermore, he assured prompt action to facilitate the completion of hostel buildings, funded by the Niger Delta Development Commission and OSOPADEC, to accommodate more students without delay.
In his welcome address, the Pro-Chancellor, Prof. Adebo Adesomoju, expressed gratitude to Governor Aiyedatiwa for prioritizing the continuation of internal road construction within the university premises. Meanwhile, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Temi Ologunorisa, shared the joyous news of the university’s academic achievements, with a total of 1,202 students receiving their first degrees in the 2021/2022 and 2022/2023 academic sessions.
Prof. Ologunorisa proudly announced the diverse academic profile of the graduating cohort, comprising 62 first-class graduates, 527 second-class upper division graduates, 552 second-class lower division graduates, and 61 third-class division graduates. Highlighting the institution’s transition from a teaching-focused to a research-oriented university, he lauded the significant strides made in research endeavors, with faculty members securing substantial grants totaling millions of naira.
The governor’s commitment to education and the university’s academic achievements underscore the state’s dedication to fostering a conducive learning environment and nurturing the next generation of skilled professional
Education, Investment