In a momentous stride forward, the Oyo State Government has demonstrated its unwavering commitment to advancing agricultural education and fostering unity within the state. The recent acquisition of the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) and the establishment of a new campus in Iseyin represent pivotal developments in Oyo State’s educational landscape.
The shared governance of LAUTECH with Osun State has become a thing of the past, as Oyo State has taken full control of administration of this prestigious institution. This milestone opens the door to new opportunities for quality education and improved governance, with particular focus on agricultural education. Since January 2023, the Oyo State government, in collaboration with LAUTECH’s governing body, has been diligently working to create an educational hub in Okeogun, specifically in Iseyin on the core basis of agricultural-related courses since the area is one of the promising areas for agricultural production in the state. This endeavour is not just about education; it’ is a concerted effort to promote unity among the diverse regions of the state.
The significance of this journey was underscored by a directive issued by the Acting Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Razaq Kalilu, on behalf of the Senate. The directive announced the relocation of 200-level students in the College of Agricultural Sciences and Renewable Natural Resources to the new Iseyin campus. Their academic journey at this promising location by marking a pivotal step toward realising the vision of a robust agricultural education centre. However, like any significant transition, challenges are to be expected. Recent reports, through a viral video made by one of the lecturers from the College of Agricultural Sciences and Renewable Natural Resources have highlighted a concerning low turnout of students during the initial days at the Iseyin Campus.
FarmingFarmersFarms’ sources learnt that, one of the school’s dedicated lecturers, Dr. Wole Adeleke, shared his observations. On a particular morning, he found himself in the classroom with just one student. Nevertheless, despite the limited attendance, Dr. Adeleke’s commitment to his teaching duties was unwavering, as he delivered a lecture and made the most of his visit to Iseyin. Amid these initial challenges, there are rays of hope. Oyinkansola Afolabi, a 200-level student, was the only student, who attended Dr. Adeleke’s class, as Afolabi’s positive feedback about her lecture experience at the Iseyin campus serves as a testament to the potential of this new initiative.
In a nutshell, the transformation of agricultural education in Oyo State is well underway with the aim of creating synergy between agricultural promising areas within the state and potential agricultural students in one of the main institution in the state. The acquisition of LAUTECH and the establishment of the Iseyin campus represent a bold stride toward a brighter future for agricultural education. While facing challenges, the state as well as concerned bodies remain optimistic and steadfast in the mission to build a thriving agricultural education hub that will benefit our students and the entire community.
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