By Aliyu Mofoluwaso Raheem
The Centre for Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development of the Federal Polytechnic Ayede, Oyo State, has officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Ogbomoso First Community Initiative. This landmark partnership was formalized today to enhance the skills development and entrepreneurship opportunities for youths within the community.
Otunba Bayo Babatunde, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Ogbomoso First Community Initiative, highlighted that the group was established in 2009 with a mission to prioritize Ogbomoso’s development agenda. Under his leadership, the organization has made significant contributions, including the distribution of thousands of exercise books to secondary school students across Ogbomoso. Additionally, the group has empowered numerous indigent individuals by providing essential equipment such as sewing machines, motorcycles, hairdressing kits, and other vocational tools.
The President of the group, Architect Sakiru Suara, emphasized the importance of combining education with practical skills in today’s competitive world. He encouraged trainees and users of the Centre’s facilities to enhance their academic qualifications with skills acquisition, thereby creating multiple streams of income to secure their futures. Architect Suara also shared a personal anecdote on how the trade of his father, a bricklayer, inspired his own success.
Engr. Dr. Taofeeq Adekunle Abdul-Hameed, Rector of Federal Polytechnic Ayede, commended the unwavering dedication of Ogbomoso indigenes toward the progress of the polytechnic. He specifically acknowledged Architect Suara as a cornerstone in the institution’s early development, notably through his facilitation of the administrative building at the Iresaapa campus. The Rector further urged the community to lead lives that serve as exemplary models for others. He also announced upcoming projects facilitated by Professor Jide Ajao, a distinguished indigene and local government representative, which will further benefit the Polytechnic.
Mr. Christopher Owojori, Director of the Centre for Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development, represented by Mrs. Kafayat Olawumi Bulala, outlined that the initial programme conducted in partnership with Ogbomoso First is aimed at indigenes of Ogbomoso and surrounding areas. Eligible candidates have been screened and approved by the Federal Ministry of Education, the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), and the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) under the Technical and Vocational Education Training (TVET) initiative. Each trainee receives a monthly stipend, and the Centre is supported financially to run the programme over a six-month period.
The MoU, which is valid for two years, was signed by representatives of both parties to formalize this collaborative effort.
In his closing remarks, Mr. Dejo Oyelowo, a retired Commissioner of Police, announced that the two best-performing trainees at the conclusion of the programme will receive additional support and equipment to further their entrepreneurial ventures.
Ogbomoso First Community Initiative Team at the Event:
– Architect Sakiru Suara, President
– Otunba Bayo Babatunde, Chairman Board of Trustees
– Engr. Akinloye Oyekola, Board Member
– Commissioner Dejo Oyelowo (Retired)
– Chief Bayo Eegunbiyi, Membership Secretary
Federal Polytechnic Ayede Management Team at the Event:
– Dr. Azeez Olasunkanmi Ojo, Deputy Rector
– Dr. Samuel Oguniyi, Polytechnic Librarian
– Mr. Akin Odesola, Registrar represented by Deputy Registrar, Mr. G.K. Olantinwo, among others.
This partnership marks a significant step toward empowering youths through skills acquisition and entrepreneurship, thereby fostering sustainable development in Oyo State and beyond under the visionary leadership of Engr. Dr. Taofeeq Adekunle Abdul-Hameed, FNSE.
