By: Fémí Emmanuel
The Soun of Ogbomosoland, His Royal Majesty Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye (Orumogege III), on Thursday, paid a historic courtesy visit to the Federal Polytechnic Ayede, signaling a deepening bond between traditional leadership and the academic community.
The visit, held at the institution’s IresaApa campus, attracted top traditional rulers, education stakeholders, and members of the host community. The royal entourage, led by Oba Olaoye, was warmly received by the Polytechnic’s Rector and management team, who guided the monarch through a tour of the institution’s permanent site, showcasing ongoing infrastructural developments.
Established in 2021, the Polytechnic has quickly gained recognition for its innovative strides in technical education. The Rector, in his welcome address, expressed appreciation for the support of Oba Olaoye and the Ogbomoso traditional council, citing previous contributions that have bolstered the institution’s growth.
He appealed for sustained support, highlighting key challenges, particularly poor road infrastructure limiting access to the permanent site. He also noted collaborative efforts with the Ecological Office and individuals like Prof. Sola Adepoju to address these issues.
In a culturally significant move, the Rector announced the introduction of a compulsory course titled History and Culture of Ogbomoso, aimed at deepening students’ appreciation of their host environment. The course, he revealed, had been reviewed and approved by Prof. Razaq Olatunde Rom Kalilu, Vice Chancellor of LAUTECH and a native of Ogbomoso.
The Rector further noted that the Polytechnic stands out among peer institutions created in the same period, having received commendations from the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) for its rapid progress.
Responding, Oba Olaoye commended the leadership of the Polytechnic, lauding the Rector’s dynamism and visionary management. Drawing from his academic experience at Obafemi Awolowo University, he encouraged the institution to uphold high standards and inclusive development. He emphasized the importance of aligning institutional goals with the cultural values and aspirations of the Ogbomoso people.
Also speaking, the Oba of Iresa Apa, His Royal Majesty Oba Moses Olayiwola Ajiboye, thanked Oba Olaoye for his impactful visit and praised the Polytechnic’s management for its inclusive leadership. He appealed to the Soun to engage Governor Seyi Makinde on improving road infrastructure in Ogbomosoland, describing it as vital to economic and social development.
The event was graced by dignitaries including the Iyalode of Ogbomoso, High Chief (Mrs.) Rebecca Ogundare, and other traditional leaders. It also featured remarks by Deputy Rector (Academics), Mr. Ojo, who reaffirmed the Polytechnic’s commitment to academic excellence and community service.
Present at the event were members of the institution’s management team, including Registrar Mr. Akin Odesola, Bursar Alhaja Rashidat Titilola Oladepo, and Polytechnic Librarian’s representative Mr. Dare Adeleke.
The visit was widely seen as a pivotal moment in fostering collaboration between the institution and its host community, blending education, culture, and leadership for sustainable development.
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