RUGIPO set for varsity status as Aiyedatiwa receives committee report
Ondo State Governor, Gov. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has described the proposed upgrade of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo (RUGIPO) to a university as a strategic step toward advancing the state’s development in agriculture, science, and technology.
The governor stated this on Monday while receiving the report on the proposed transition to the University of Agriculture, Science and Technology, Owo (UNASTO), in Akure.
He commended the committee for what he described as a comprehensive and detailed report, which includes a campus master plan, academic brief, five-year financial framework, and take-off grant projections.
“This work reflects clear vision and careful planning,” he said, adding that the proposed institution has the potential to rank among the best in Nigeria.
Gov. Aiyedatiwa noted that the initiative aligns with national priorities in agriculture, rural development, electrification, and water supply.
He emphasised the role of science, technology, and innovation in driving agricultural productivity and economic growth.
“Science and technology must underpin our efforts in food production and wealth creation,” he said.
The governor also stressed the need for a smooth transition process to protect the academic interests of existing students of the polytechnic.
“We must manage the transition carefully while building a university that can compete nationally,” he added.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun, who chaired the committee, said the proposed upgrade is aimed at meeting the growing demand for university education among youths.
He described the proposed institution as one designed to combine technical expertise with strong academic training for global competitiveness.
According to him, the university will focus on innovation, applied knowledge, and technological advancement.
Prof. Ajibefun said the committee reviewed existing RUGIPO documents and benchmarked the proposal against institutions within and outside Nigeria.
He disclosed that the proposed university would take off with faculties in Agriculture and Natural Resources, Allied Health Sciences, Basic and Applied Sciences, Communication and Media Sciences, Computing and Digital Technology, Engineering Technology, Environmental Sciences, and Social and Management Sciences.
He added that a consultant town planner developed the master plan in line with requirements of the National Universities Commission (NUC).
The commissioner also outlined a five-year strategic development plan focused on financial sustainability, stable academic operations, and diversified revenue sources.
He noted that a draft enabling law for the university has been prepared and would require minor amendments for formal recognition by the NUC.
Other officials present included the Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami; Secretary to the State Government, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti; Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa; and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, Dr Akindele Ige.