(The Soun, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, Orumogege the 111, with FEDPA Rector, Dr. Taofeek Adekunle Abdul-Hameed with others on projects’ inspection tour of FEDPA permanent site)
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By Biola Lawal
Ayede FLOWERBUDNEWS: The Monarch of Ogbomosoland, Soun, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, Orumogege the 111, has commended the impressive physical and educational progress recorded by the Federal Polytechnic, Ayede in its few years of establishment.
FLOWERBUDNEWS reports that Oba Ghandi Olaoye gave the commendation on Friday when he paid an historic visit to the permanent site of the institution during which he inspected the numerous completed and ongoing developmental projects in the institution.
The royal courtesy visit to the Iresa Apa campus, attracted the traditional leaders, educational stakeholders, and community members eager to witness the flourishing relationship between the Polytechnic and its surrounding community.
Accompanied by a notable entourage of chiefs and traditional leaders from Ogbomosoland, Oba Olaoye received a warm welcome from the Rector, Dr. Taofeek Adekunle Abdul-Hameed and top management staff of the Polytechnic.
The Rector conducted the Monarch on a tour of the institution’s permanent site in Ayede, showcasing impressive infrastructural developments that showcased the Polytechnic’s commitment to growth since its establishment in 2021. The institution is swiftly gaining recognition for its excellence and innovation.
In his welcoming remarks, the Rector expressed gratitude to Oba Olaoye and the Ogbomoso traditional council for their steadfast support of the institution.
He acknowledged past donations and contributions that have bolstered the development of the Polytechnic and seized the opportunity to appeal for continued and increased support.
The Rector identified critical challenges facing the Polytechnic to include inadequate road infrastructure hampering access to the permanent site, and revealed ongoing efforts, including collaborations with the Ecological Office and support from notable academics such as Prof. Shola Adepoju.
Demonstrating cultural sensitivity and foresight, the Rector announced the introduction of a new mandatory course titled “History and Culture of Ogbomoso,” which all students will undertake.
‘:This initiative aims to celebrate the heritage of the host community and foster a deeper appreciation of their environment among students,” the Rector said, adding;
”The course’s academic credibility and cultural significance have been ensured through careful vetting by Professor Razaq Olatunde Rom Kalilu, Vice Chancellor of Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) and a respected indigene of Ogbomoso.’
Highlighting the achievements of the Polytechnic, the Rector said that it had distinguished itself among the six institutions established around the same period, receiving commendations from the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) for significant strides in technical education.
Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye commended the Polytechnic’s progress and leadership during his address. He praised the Rector’s dynamic management style and expressed optimism about the institution’s future, encouraging the leadership to set high standards that other institutions could aspire to emulate.
Drawing on his own educational experience at what is now Obafemi Awolowo University, he referenced the legacy of Prof. Hezekiah Oluwasanmi, advocating for a model of purposeful academic growth and transformational leadership.
The Soun further urged the Polytechnic to be inclusive of the needs of local indigenes, emphasizing that development should encompass cultural preservation alongside academic pursuits. He advised the institution to align its goals with the aspirations of the Ogbomoso community.
Also speaking at the event, His Royal Majesty Oba Moses Olayiwola Ajiboye, the Oba of Iresa Apa, expressed gratitude to Oba Olaoye for his impactful visit and contributions to regional development. He commended the Polytechnic’s leadership for actively involving traditional leaders in its vision.
In a heartfelt appeal, Oba Ajiboye asked Oba Olaoye to leverage his influence with Governor Seyi Makinde to urgently address the dire condition of roads across Ogbomosoland. He stressed that improved infrastructure is crucial for enhancing accessibility, safety, and the economic wellbeing of the community.
The event gathered numerous dignitaries, including High Chief (Mrs.) Rebecca Ogundare, the Iyalode of Ogbomoso, and other esteemed chiefs, underscoring a collective commitment to advancing education in the region.
The closing remarks, delivered by Deputy Rector Academics, Mr. Ojo, expressed gratitude for the monarch’s support and reaffirmed the Polytechnic’s dedication to academic excellence and community engagement.
In attendance were members of the Rector’s management team, whose leadership continues to foster the Polytechnic’s growth. The event also benefited from the coordination of Registrar Mr. Akin Odesola and the financial oversight of Bursar Alhaja Rashidat Titilola Oladepo.
The presence of the Polytechnic Librarian, represented by Mr. Dare Adeleke, further exemplified the cohesive leadership defining Federal Polytechnic Ayede as a promising player in technical education.
As the visit concluded, it became evident that this gathering was not merely ceremonial but a pivotal moment deepening the bond between Federal Polytechnic Ayede and the traditional leadership of Ogbomosoland.
Together, through education, culture, and community development, they are poised to embark on a journey of transformative progress. With the royal guidance of Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye and Oba Moses Olayiwola Ajiboye, the institution and the region are set on a promising path toward excellence. (FLOWERBUDNEWS):
