Adeleke Declares University of Ilesa 'A Dream Fulfilled' as He Commissions New Projects, Lists Education Reforms

 

By Abel Chigozie 

Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, on Tuesday commissioned several academic and developmental projects at the University of Ilesa, reaffirming his administration's commitment to strengthening higher education and improving infrastructure across the state.

Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, Governor Adeleke described the event as a major milestone in the university's growth, expressing satisfaction with the institution's rapid progress within Nigeria's university system.

The governor commended the Governing Council, the Vice-Chancellor and the university management for what he described as their exemplary administrative and academic leadership, noting that the institution had quickly evolved into a reputable centre of learning.

"I am delighted to attend this landmark event. Within such a short period, the university has taken its rightful place within the Nigerian university system. Our baby is growing to become an adult, and I am proud of you all," Adeleke said.

Addressing traditional rulers and the people of Ijesaland, Adeleke declared that his administration had fulfilled its promise of establishing the University of Ilesa, describing the institution as a collective dream that had become a lasting reality.

He recalled that while the previous administration merely announced the university, his government enacted the legal framework establishing it, secured accreditation for several academic programmes and laid a solid governance structure for its operation.

The governor also highlighted key reforms undertaken by his administration during the transition from the defunct Osun State College of Education, Ilesa, to a full-fledged university.

According to him, the government ensured a seamless transition without any adverse consequences for workers, converted all temporary and contract staff of the former college to permanent and pensionable appointments, settled outstanding staff allowances, implemented the new university salary structure and paid salary arrears.

Adeleke further stated that his administration had cleared half-salary arrears owed to workers across the state, released withheld cooperative deductions and maintained regular staff promotions with financial backing.

He assured university workers that non-teaching staff would also benefit from the new salary structure once the state's financial position improves.

Despite prevailing economic challenges, the governor said his administration had continued investing in the university's physical and academic infrastructure, adding that the projects commissioned reflected the government's unwavering commitment to educational development.

Declaring the projects officially open, Adeleke said the facilities were commissioned "to the glory of God and the benefit of humanity," while pledging sustained support for the University of Ilesa as it continues its journey towards academic excellence.