Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has announced the approval of a N1.2 billion grant for Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology, Okitipupa (OAUSTECH). The grant is intended to facilitate the completion of several abandoned projects on the university campus, reaffirming the state government’s commitment to enhancing the quality of education in the region.
Governor Aiyedatiwa, who also serves as the Visitor to the university, made this announcement during the second convocation ceremony of OAUSTECH, held on Monday at the university campus in Okitipupa. Addressing the audience, the governor expressed his honor to preside over the convocation as the university’s Visitor, marking his inaugural attendance since assuming office just 69 days prior.
Acknowledging the significance of education and infrastructure development, Governor Aiyedatiwa emphasized the importance of completing ongoing projects to ensure the university’s growth and progress. He highlighted the forthcoming School of Maritime Transport and Logistics at Ugbonla, currently at 60 percent completion by the Ondo State Oil-producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC), as a pivotal initiative that will bolster the state’s Deep Seaport Project and advance the country’s Blue Economy agenda.
The governor’s approval of the N1.2 billion capital grant in the 2024 budget for OAUSTECH aims to expedite the completion of abandoned buildings, particularly those within the School of Science and other critical areas. Additionally, Governor Aiyedatiwa assured the institution of a monthly subvention of N91 million to support its operational activities and promote academic excellence.
Furthermore, Governor Aiyedatiwa pledged to facilitate the timely completion of hostel buildings funded by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and OSOPADEC, ensuring that students have access to comfortable accommodation conducive to their academic pursuits.
During the convocation ceremony, the governor announced automatic employment for Miss Adedayo Janet, the best-graduating student at OAUSTECH, in recognition of her outstanding academic achievement. He urged all graduating students to uphold the values of excellence and integrity instilled in them by the university, encouraging them to be proud ambassadors of Ondo State wherever they go.
In his welcome address, Prof. Adebo Adesomoju, the Pro-Chancellor of OAUSTECH, commended Governor Aiyedatiwa for his unwavering support and commitment to the university’s development. He specifically mentioned the governor’s directive to continue the construction of internal roads within the institution, which reflects the government’s dedication to improving infrastructure on campus.
Meanwhile, Prof. Temi Ologunorisa, the Vice Chancellor of OAUSTECH, provided insights into the university’s academic achievements during the convocation ceremony. He revealed that a total of 1,202 students were conferred with first-degree honors in the 2021/2022 and 2022/2023 academic sessions, showcasing the institution’s commitment to academic excellence and student success.
Prof. Ologunorisa highlighted the university’s transition from a teaching institution to a research-focused university, citing significant advancements in research initiatives. Notably, several university staff members have received substantial grants for their research projects, underscoring OAUSTECH’s growing reputation as a hub for innovative research and scholarship.
Overall, Governor Aiyedatiwa’s announcement of the N1.2 billion grant for OAUSTECH represents a pivotal moment in the university’s journey towards academic excellence and infrastructure development. As the institution continues to grow and evolve, it is poised to make significant contributions to the educational landscape of Ondo State and Nigeria as a whole.
