Education
Ondo Moves to Upgrade RUGIPO to University as Aiyedatiwa Unveils UNASTO Plan
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has announced plans to upgrade Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo (RUGIPO) into a university, describing the move as key to positioning Ondo State for national development.
The proposed institution, to be named the University of Agriculture, Science and Technology, Owo (UNASTO), is expected to begin with multiple faculties spanning science, technology, and agriculture.
The governor made the announcement on Monday in Akure while receiving a committee report outlining the transition plan.
Why it matters
The upgrade reflects a growing demand among Nigerian students for university degrees over polytechnic diplomas.
It also signals a shift towards aligning education with sectors seen as critical to economic growth, including agriculture, technology, and rural development.
Governor Aiyedatiwa said the initiative would help the state compete nationally while supporting federal priorities.
“Artificial intelligence and technology will drive higher agricultural yields and sustainable rural livelihoods,” he said.
“Science and technology must underpin everything we do, including food production and wealth creation.”
What the report proposes
According to the committee, UNASTO will launch with a wide range of faculties, including:
Agriculture and Natural Resources
Allied Health Sciences
Basic and Applied Sciences
Communication and Media Sciences
Computing and Digital Technology
Engineering Technology
Environmental Sciences
Social and Management Sciences
The report also includes a campus master plan, a five-year financial framework, and sustainability strategies.
Governor Aiyedatiwa praised the depth of the proposal.
“This work reflects a clear vision and meticulous planning,” he said.
“The calibre of experts involved… leaves no doubt that this university can become one of the best in Nigeria.”
Managing the transition
The governor acknowledged concerns about current students at RUGIPO and called for a careful transition process.
“We must manage the shift carefully while preparing for a university capable of competing nationally,” he said.
Education experts often warn that poorly managed transitions can disrupt academic programmes, making this phase critical.
Government and expert perspective
Presenting the report, the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun, said the upgrade responds to the aspirations of a growing youth population.
“The objective is aptly reflected in the proposed name… underscoring our commitment to innovation, applied knowledge, and technological advancement,” he said.
He added that the committee reviewed both local and international university models to ensure global competitiveness.
The proposal includes a draft law for formal approval and compliance with National Universities Commission (NUC) requirements.
Industry and public impact
If approved, the university could:
Expand access to degree education in Ondo State
Boost local economic activity in Owo and surrounding areas
Strengthen workforce development in agriculture and tech sectors
Attract research funding and partnerships
However, analysts say funding, infrastructure, and regulatory approval will determine the pace of implementation.
What’s next
The state government is expected to review and refine the draft law before seeking formal approval and NUC accreditation.
A phased rollout is likely, beginning with selected faculties and infrastructure upgrades.
Education
OAUSTECH Vice-Chancellor Urges Reflection, Hope in Easter Message to Christians
The Vice-Chancellor of Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology, Prof. Temi Ologunorisa, has extended Easter greetings to Christians, urging them to embrace love, hope and sacrifice during the season.
Easter Message to University Community
In a statement marking Good Friday and Easter Sunday, Prof. Ologunorisa conveyed warm wishes to members of the university community and Christians beyond the institution.
He emphasised the importance of reflection and renewal, describing Easter as a period that should inspire both personal growth and collective responsibility.
“May this sacred period bring reflection, renewal, and joy to your hearts and homes,” he said.
Why It Matters
Easter is one of the most significant celebrations in the Christian calendar, symbolising sacrifice, hope and new beginnings.
For academic communities like OAUSTECH, such messages often serve as a reminder of shared values, including service, compassion and excellence—principles seen as essential in shaping both students and society.
Call for Compassion and Service
The Vice-Chancellor encouraged individuals to translate the lessons of the season into action, particularly in how they relate with others.
“May the spirit of love, hope, and sacrifice that defines this season inspire us all to greater heights of service, compassion, and excellence.”
His message aligns with broader calls across Nigeria during festive periods for unity, empathy and social responsibility.
Wider Context
Across Nigeria, religious and community leaders typically use Easter messages to address national values and encourage peaceful coexistence.
In recent years, such messages have also highlighted the role of education in fostering ethical leadership and civic responsibility.
What’s Next
Easter celebrations across campuses and communities are expected to continue through the weekend, with religious services, outreach activities and social gatherings.
Institutions like OAUSTECH are also expected to resume academic activities shortly after the holiday period.
Education
Aiyedatiwa to Deliver FUTA 2026 Foundation Day Lecture on Technology and Leadership
The Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, will deliver the 2026 Foundation Day Lecture of Federal University of Technology Akure on April 16, as part of activities marking the institution’s anniversary.
The lecture, scheduled for 10:00 AM at the Obafemi Awolowo Auditorium, will focus on the theme: “Leadership and Organisational Performance: Technology as a Driver.”
Why it matters
The event comes at a time when Nigerian universities and public institutions are increasingly turning to digital innovation to improve efficiency and governance.
Experts say discussions around leadership and technology are crucial for shaping policy direction, improving institutional performance, and preparing graduates for a fast-evolving global economy.
The lecture is also expected to strengthen collaboration between government, academia, and industry stakeholders.
Who will attend
According to organisers, the event will attract key figures from across sectors, including:
Academic and administrative heads of higher institutions
Professional university administrators
Government officials from ministries, departments, and agencies
Traditional leaders and education stakeholders
This broad participation reflects the lecture’s role as a platform for dialogue between “town and gown” — a long-standing academic tradition.
Key roles and organisers
The Vice-Chancellor of FUTA, Adenike Temidayo Oladiji, will chair the occasion, while the Registrar, Charles Adeleye, will serve as host.
In a statement issued by the university’s Director of Corporate Communications and Protocol, the Foundation Day Lecture was described as “one of the special academic events that brings together Town and Gown.”
Tradition and academic significance
Foundation Day lectures are a longstanding feature in Nigerian universities, marking institutional milestones while offering a platform for thought leadership on national and global issues.
At FUTA, the annual lecture has evolved into a high-level forum for policy conversations, innovation, and academic exchange.
What’s next
The 2026 lecture is expected to generate conversations around how technology can enhance governance, leadership accountability, and institutional productivity across Nigeria’s education sector and beyond.
Observers say outcomes from the event could influence both policy discussions and academic research directions in the coming years.
Education
Nigeria Customs Marks One Year of ‘Customs Cares’ with Abuja School Upgrade
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has marked the first anniversary of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, Customs Cares, with the commissioning of a major school project in Abuja.
The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, unveiled the intervention on Tuesday at Government Secondary School Wuse, describing it as a milestone in the agency’s community development efforts.
“What we have seen here today shows clearly that we did not make a mistake in adopting this school,” Mr Adeniyi said.
“The performance by the students reflects the impact of what has been done.”
The project includes renovated facilities, solar-powered lighting, CCTV installation and new educational materials aimed at improving both safety and learning conditions.
Why it matters
Education experts say targeted infrastructure upgrades can significantly improve student outcomes in public schools.
Adeniyi said the intervention goes beyond physical improvements, focusing on confidence-building and personal development.
“This is not just about infrastructure. It is about creating opportunities for young people to grow, interact and build confidence for the future,” he said.
Nigeria’s public school system has long faced challenges including poor infrastructure and limited resources, making partnerships like this increasingly important.
What has changed at the school
According to the school’s principal, Josephine Ugwu, the intervention has transformed the learning environment.
“These facilities have transformed our environment. The hall will now serve as a centre for learning, cultural activities and talent development,” she said.
The upgrade includes:
Renovation of a multi-purpose hall
Installation of CCTV cameras
Solar-powered street lighting
Distribution of educational materials
School authorities say the improvements have already strengthened both academic performance and student engagement.
Government and institutional response
The Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Territory Education Board, Danlami Hayyo, described the project as a strong example of institutional collaboration.
“This intervention goes beyond infrastructure. It represents a commitment to the future of these students and to the broader goal of sustainable development,” he said.
He added that such initiatives open the door for deeper partnerships between government agencies and the education sector.
Inside the ‘Customs Cares’ initiative
The Customs Cares programme was launched to address development gaps in communities where the NCS operates.
The Comptroller in charge of the unit, Patience Ibrahim, said the initiative has expanded rapidly within its first year.
“In just one year, the initiative has grown into a recognised platform for delivering impactful projects across the country,” she said.
“This intervention reflects the Service’s commitment to education as a driver of national development.”
Sustainability concerns
CGC Adeniyi warned that many public projects fail due to poor maintenance and called for stronger partnerships to sustain the investment.
“Our office remains open for further collaboration, but we must ensure that what has been provided is properly sustained,” he said.
He also urged students to make full use of the facilities, particularly in developing communication and public speaking skills.
Community engagement and activities
The event also featured community-focused activities, including a basketball match between Customs officials and students.
Tree planting exercises involving senior officials and education stakeholders were also held, reinforcing environmental awareness.
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