Osun Poly Rector pledges student union revival at Matriculation

The Rector of Osun State Polytechnic Iree Mr. Kehinde Alabi, has declared his intention to reinstate the Student Union Government (SUG) during the 29th Matriculation Ceremony for the 2023/2024 Academic Session. The announcement came as the institution welcomed its fresh intake of NCE1, ND1, and HND1 students in a ceremony held at the Education Trust Fund Hall (ETF).

Expressing his gratitude to God and acknowledging the significance of the matriculation ceremony, Alabi emphasized the importance of promoting responsible democratic unionism among students; envisioning a future where dialogue and consultation would replace violence and confrontation, fostering a healthy relationship between leaders and students.

“As time goes on, an effort to restore democratic Government to the student union will resume. I hope that the new effort will usher in an era of responsible democratic unionism, one in which dialogue will replace violence, cooperation, and confrontation, an era in which consultation and communication will be the watchword in the relationship between the leaders and the led, he pledged.

In his pursuit of academic excellence, Alabi also promised to revamp and upgrade classrooms, laboratories, and libraries, aligning them with the demands of the educational system. Additionally, he promised to elevate the institution’s reputation by enhancing the quality of existing journals to meet international standards, positioning the Polytechnic as a hub of serious academic endeavours.

Reflecting on his accomplishments during his short term as Rector of the Institution, Alabi proudly announced the accreditation of 10 new courses at the National Diploma and Higher National Diploma levels by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), an achievement that showcases the institution’s commitment to academic excellence and its dedication to expanding its program offerings.

“For the first time in the history of the institution, and as part of ensuring academic excellence, the institution’s management, in conjunction with the Governing Council of the Polytechnic, under the leadership of Hon. Diran Ayanbeku, secured accreditation of 10 new courses, both at the National Diploma and Higher National Diploma levels from the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) with acquisition of more carrying capacity to some existing programmes.” The rector revealed.

Also, Alabi stressed that his administration is working towards a complete overhaul of the system, aspiring to transform the polytechnic into a respected centre of excellence in character and technology. By prioritizing student welfare, staff development, academic excellence, infrastructural development, ICT integration, and entrepreneurship education, he aims to create a vibrant and enviable academic environment.

Furthermore, he pledged to address issues concerning power and water supply, as well as upgrade facilities in the Health Center. He assured students that their concerns would be promptly heard and fairly addressed.

Nevertheless, he informed the students that their examination was around the corner and encouraged them to uphold academic integrity and avoid engaging in any form of cheating. He stressed that their time at the institution should not only be focused on acquiring knowledge but also on developing essential skills, values, and qualities that will prepare them for the future.

“Remember, your journey here is not just about acquiring knowledge but also about developing essential skills, values, and qualities that will prepare you for the world beyond these walls. As you immerse yourself in your studies, I encourage you to engage with your peers, seek guidance from your mentors, and actively participate in the various academic and extracurricular activities available to you.” The Rector counselled.

In a similar vein, the rector expressed his gratitude to various individuals and groups, including, the Executive Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke; the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Alhaji Kazeem Akinleye; the Honorable Commissioner for Education, Hon. Dipo Eluwole; the Osun State House of Assembly led by Rt. Honourable Adewale Egbedun; the Governing Council led by Hon. Diran Ayanbeku, the staff unions’ leaders, ASUP, SSANIP, NASU, fellow staffers (Academic and Non-Teaching) and the entire student body. He acknowledged their support and contributions to the growth of the institution.

Alabi congratulated the new students on embarking on a remarkable journey filled with countless possibilities and opportunities. He urged them to embrace the challenges they would encounter, cherish every moment, and strive for excellence in all their endeavours.

Some of the dignitaries who graced the event include the Rector of OSPOLY, Mr Kehinde Alabi; Registrar of the institution, Mr Oloyede; Dean of Student Affairs, Dr Tope Abiola; Institution’s Director of Media Relations, Public Relations and Protocol, Mr Adebayo Fadeji; Director of MIS, Mrs Ashaolu; Director of Part-time Program, F.O Olaleye, Director of Exam, Mr Robert Modupeola Olagunju, the Director of Academic Planning, Dr A.G Faroumbi, Heads of departments, Faculty Officers, Deputy Registrars, Faculty Deans, among others.