We’ll Transform LAUTECH into Top 50 Global Institution – Makinde
..Says Education, Infrastructure, key to development
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to prioritizing education, with a focus on transforming Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) into one of the top 50 globally recognized institutions.
Speaking at the 17th convocation ceremony of postgraduate students held at The Great Hall on Wednesday, Governor Makinde emphasized that education is key to development and that his administration will continue to prioritize it.
The Governor, who was who was represented by his Deputy, Barr. Abdul-Raheem Adebayo Lawal, noted that the LAUTECH Amendment Bill 2022 has enabled the institution to offer courses outside the field of technology, paving the way for its growth and development.
He said: “About four years ago, the train left the station when we started making moves to ensure the sole ownership of LAUTECH. Today, the journey has not only begun, we are on the way to making the University more than a University of Technology.
“We had this in mind when we proposed the LAUTECH Amendment BIll 2022. The Bill, thankfully is what is enabling the institution offer courses outside the field of Technology.
“While looking at the great future ahead of us, we cannot forget the past. That however does not mean we will stay put and dwell in the past; that is why we are looking ahead at the New LAUTECH.
“When I took over the mantle of leadership of this state, I promised to work tirelessly and take responsibility for the workings of every sector. I am glad that this institution has showed that indeed, “aji se bi Oyo laa ri” as LAUTECH has been setting the pace among state universities in Nigeria.
“Our commitment to making functional education available to our children is still very much intact and we are undeterred. We are assured that with the expansion of LAUTECH, that dream will be actualized. I have reports that the College of Agricultural Sciences and Renewable Natural Resources is doing well. At the risk of sounding repetitive, I am therefore assuring you again, that our administration will continue to prioritize education.”
The Governor urged the graduands to apply their knowledge, skills, and values to make a positive impact in their communities and the world at large.
He also emphasized the importance of innovation, creativity, and technological training in addressing societal challenges and contributing to national development.
Governor Makinde congratulated the graduating students, faculty, and staff, and expressed appreciation to the university community, alumni, and stakeholders for their support.
“To the graduating students, I offer these words of wisdom: as you embark on your journey, remember that your education is a foundation for greatness.
Apply your knowledge, skills, and values to make a positive impact in your communities and the world at large. Always remember that your journey through university is not just to earn a degree but to make you responsible citizens. You should also be ready to put the innovation, creativity and the technological training LAUTECH has infused in you into good use. By so doing, you will play a part both in addressing societal challenges and helping us make Oyo State better.
“Like I said here last year, education is a key factor in the blueprint of our roadmap to sustainable development. That explains why education took V 21.4% of the State Budget last year and our administration has continually prioritised education and infrastructure. They are both keys to development. Many people are seeing graduands clad in academic outfits but what I see before me are people who will shape the future of Nigeria.
“AS LAUTECH celebrates 35 vears, I charge the university community to continue striving for excellence, innovation, and relevance. Let us harness our collective potential to address societal challenges and contribute to national development.
“I express my appreciation to the university community, alumni, and stakeholders for their unwavering support. Together, we can achieve even greater heights. I also thank the leaders and members of the Workers’ Unions who have cooperated with the leadership of the University. LAUTECH has become a University that we are all proud of.
“I congratulate the graduating students, faculty, and staff on this momentous occasion. May this celebration mark a new chapter in LAUTECH’s journey towards excellence.” the Governor said.
In their separate remarks, the Governing Council Chairman, Ayo Omole, and Vice Chancellor, Professor ROM Kalilu, disclosed that a total of 11,528 graduands were graduating, with 8,102 receiving their degrees in the undergraduate category.
They highlighted LAUTECH’s continuous ascent in rankings, including its position as the best state university in Nigeria in the Times Higher Education’s World University Ranking.
The event was attended by government functionaries, including the Commissioner for Education, Science, and Technology, Prof. Soliu Abdul Waheed Adelabu, Comm. For works and transport, Dahood Sangodoyin; LAUTECH Global Alumni President, Lekan Badmus; Soun of Ogbomoso land, Oba Ghandi Orumogege; and other prominent dignitaries.