By Adegbaju Temitope
Plans to elevate Rufus Giwa Polytechnic to a full-fledged university have gathered momentum, as Ondo State Governor, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, received the report of a high-powered committee proposing its transformation into the University of Agriculture, Science and Technology, Owo (UNASTO).
The governor described the proposed upgrade as a strategic intervention aimed at positioning Ondo State at the forefront of national development in agriculture, science and technology, stressing that the initiative aligns with broader federal priorities in food security, rural development and technological advancement.
Receiving the report at his office in Akure on Monday, Aiyedatiwa commended the committee for what he termed a comprehensive and forward-looking submission, which included a campus master plan, academic framework, five-year financial sustainability model, and a detailed take-off grant structure.
“This work reflects a clear vision and meticulous planning,” the governor said, noting that the calibre of experts involved and the depth of research undertaken underscored the viability of the proposed institution. “There is no doubt that this university can become one of the best in Nigeria.”
He emphasised the central role of science and emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence, in driving agricultural productivity and sustainable livelihoods, arguing that innovation must underpin efforts in food production and wealth creation.
The governor also highlighted the need for a carefully managed transition process to ensure that existing students of the polytechnic are not adversely affected during the upgrade, urging stakeholders to prioritise continuity and academic stability.
“We must manage the shift carefully while preparing for a university capable of competing nationally,” he said, calling for the swift implementation of the proposal.
Earlier, the Chairman of the committee and Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Igbekele Ajibefun, said the proposed upgrade reflects the government’s recognition of the increasing demand among young Nigerians for university education beyond polytechnic qualifications.
He explained that the envisioned institution would combine technical expertise with strong academic foundations, equipping graduates to compete effectively in a global knowledge economy.
“The objective is aptly reflected in the proposed name, University of Agriculture, Science and Technology, Owo, underscoring our commitment to innovation, applied knowledge and technological advancement,” he said.
Professor Ajibefun disclosed that the proposed university would commence with multiple faculties, including Agriculture and Natural Resources, Allied Health Sciences, Basic and Applied Sciences, Communication and Media Sciences, Computing and Digital Technology, Engineering Technology, Environmental Sciences, as well as Social and Management Sciences.
He added that the committee undertook an extensive review of existing institutional documents and benchmarked its recommendations against universities within Nigeria and abroad to ensure alignment with priority sectors for both national and global development.
According to him, a consultant town planner was engaged to develop a comprehensive master plan covering land use, infrastructure layout and future expansion, in line with regulatory requirements of the National Universities Commission.
The report also outlined a five-year strategic development plan aimed at guaranteeing financial sustainability, uninterrupted academic activities and institutional growth.
It recommended a mix of government funding, internally generated revenue and a tuition framework designed to balance affordability with operational realities.
Professor Ajibefun further revealed that a draft enabling law for the establishment of the university had already been prepared and would require only minor amendments to secure formal recognition.
The meeting was attended by key government officials, including Deputy Governor; Olayide Adelami, Secretary to the State Government; Taiwo Fasoranti, Chief of Staff; Segun Omojuwa, and Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, Akindele Ige.
