The Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has acquired the report on the proposed upgrade of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic to a university, describing the transfer as a strategic step in direction of advancing agriculture, science and expertise within the State.
This was disclosed in an announcement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Ebenezer Adeniyan, on Tuesday.
The governor spoke on Monday whereas receiving the committee’s report on the proposed conversion to the University of Agriculture, Science and Technology, Owo, at his workplace in Akure.
Aiyedatiwa recommended the depth of the submission, noting that it included a campus grasp plan, tutorial transient, sustainability framework and different key paperwork.
“This work reflects a clear vision and meticulous planning,” he mentioned. “The calibre of experts involved and the research conducted leave no doubt that this university can become one of the best in Nigeria.”
He burdened that the undertaking aligns with nationwide priorities in agriculture and rural growth.
“Artificial intelligence and technology will drive higher agricultural yields and sustainable rural livelihoods. Science and technology must underpin everything we do, including food production and wealth creation,” he added.
The governor additionally known as for cautious administration of the transition course of to guard the educational progress of present college students.
“We must manage the shift carefully while preparing for a university capable of competing nationally,” he mentioned.
Presenting the report, the committee chairman and Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Igbekele Ajibefun, mentioned the upgrade displays rising demand for university schooling amongst youths.
“The objective is aptly reflected in the proposed name, University of Agriculture, Science and Technology, Owo, underscoring our commitment to innovation, applied knowledge, and technological advancement,” Ajibefun mentioned.
He defined that the proposed establishment would supply schools throughout key disciplines, together with agriculture, engineering, computing and social sciences, and can be structured to satisfy nationwide and world growth wants.
Ajibefun added {that a} five-year growth plan had been designed to make sure monetary sustainability and uninterrupted tutorial actions, whereas a draft enabling regulation had additionally been ready for legislative approval.
The state authorities reiterated its dedication to strengthening larger schooling and positioning the proposed university as a aggressive establishment inside Nigeria.