The Polytechnic, Ibadan, marked a significant milestone on Friday as it celebrated its 40th convocation ceremony, with Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State and the Ooni of Ile-Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, delivering powerful messages on hard work and self-reliance to the graduating class.
Royal and Governmental Charge to Graduands
The event, held at the institution's 1,000-capacity hall, saw prominent figures including the monarch and the governor's representative, Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal, address the gathering. Both leaders emphasized that success in today's competitive world demands discipline, innovation, and a forward-looking mindset.
Ooni Ogunwusi, who described the polytechnic as part of his own educational foundation, advised the new graduates to remain steadfast and never forget their alma mater. In a notable act of support, he announced a personal donation of five million naira to reward the best graduating students, alongside other prizes for outstanding performers across various departments.
Government's Commitment to Education and Manpower
Governor Makinde, speaking through his deputy, reaffirmed that education remains a top priority for his administration. He highlighted that deliberate steps have been taken to strengthen the sector, noting that budgetary allocation to education has seen focused improvement from the 17-21 per cent range when his government began.
"The world will not wait for anyone. Our students must be prepared, innovative and forward-thinking to meet the demands of a rapidly changing global environment," the governor stated. He acknowledged existing manpower challenges in tertiary institutions but pointed to ongoing recruitment and capacity-building initiatives as part of the solution.
Institution's Report and Call for Polytechnic Upgrade
The Acting Rector, Dr. Taiwo Lasisi, provided key statistics from the ceremony. A total of 4,393 students graduated, comprising 1,514 National Diploma and 2,879 Higher National Diploma holders from five faculties each. He proudly noted that the overall best student achieved a Cumulative Grade Point Average of 3.87 and that every graduate left with at least one vocational skill, aimed at fostering self-reliance.
Dr. Lasisi made a significant appeal to the Federal Government, urging the conversion of polytechnics into degree-awarding institutions focused on Bachelor of Technology. He argued this would bridge the long-standing disparity with university graduates and cited examples from China and the United Kingdom where technical education drives development. He called on Governor Makinde to champion this initiative starting with The Polytechnic, Ibadan.
The ceremony also served as a platform to honour distinguished individuals for their contributions to education. The Ooni, Senior Advocate of Nigeria Ahmed Raji, and Dr. Olajide Babatunde were all conferred with fellowship awards. The event was attended by dignitaries including former NCC Chairman Prof. Adeolu Akande and UI Vice-Chancellor Prof. Kayode Adebowale.
In her valedictory speech, the overall best graduating student, Basirat Yusuf, thanked the institution's management for providing an enabling environment and urged her peers to use their acquired skills for societal development.
