Poly Ibadan staff urge Governor Makinde to appoint internal lecturer as next rector

In the wake of the impending conclusion of the tenure of the Rector and other key officials at the Polytechnic, Ibadan, the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) has directed its appeal towards Governor Seyi Makinde and the institution’s governing council, emphasizing compliance with the directives outlined by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) 2023 concerning the selection of the Rector and management personnel in state and private polytechnics.

Chairman of ASUP at Polytechnic Ibadan, Dr. Kola Lawal, conveyed this stance during a press briefing held within the institution’s premises. He highlighted the importance of adhering to the NBTE guidelines, which advocate for the appointment of only chief lecturers from Polytechnic Ibadan as the next Rector.

With the current management’s term led by Professor Kazeem Adeniyi set to conclude on March 24, Lawal emphasized the institution’s commitment to the NBTE guidelines, which were adopted by the governing council during its meeting in May 2023.

Lawal underscored the wealth of qualified chief lecturers within Polytechnic Ibadan who possess the necessary expertise and insight into the polytechnic sector, making them ideal candidates to assume leadership roles within the institution.

The ASUP argued that appointing a chief lecturer from within the institution as the next Rector would align with the spirit of fairness, ensuring that the goals and ideals set forth by the institution’s founders are upheld.

In accordance with the NBTE guidelines, which outline stringent criteria for the appointment of a Rector, Lawal reiterated the necessity of selecting a candidate who demonstrates academic excellence, administrative leadership, and a commitment to the advancement of the institution.

Furthermore, Lawal emphasized the need for transparency and adherence to the approved guidelines throughout the selection process, beginning with the publication of advertisements for prospective candidates.

Highlighting the significance of upholding the NBTE guidelines, Lawal emphasized that appointing a chief lecturer from within Polytechnic Ibadan as the next Rector would foster continued excellence in education and administration within the institution.

In a direct appeal to Governor Makinde, ASUP urged him to prioritize fairness and equity in the selection process, emphasizing the wealth of qualified chief lecturers within Polytechnic Ibadan who are well-equipped to lead the institution towards further growth and development.

ASUP expressed confidence that appointing an internal candidate as the next Rector would not only ensure the continuity of the institution’s legacy but also enhance its reputation for excellence in polytechnic education across Nigeria.