Oluwo of Iwoland Visits Nursing College, Awards Scholarships to First Five Enrollees
In a significant development for healthcare education in Osun State, the Oluwo of Iwoland, His Imperial Majesty Oba Adewale Akanbi, Telu I, made an official visit to the Skyward College of Nursing Sciences in Iwo. The royal entourage, which included prominent chiefs and palace staff, was warmly received by the institution's leadership team, marking a pivotal moment for the college's community engagement efforts.
Royal Reception and Institutional Overview
The Oluwo was greeted by Professor Lai Olurode, Chairman of the Governing Council; Alhaji Imam Abubakar Ayinla, Provost of the college; and Mr. Mumeen Ayobanji Abdulazeez, Acting Registrar, along with several staff members. During the welcoming ceremony, Provost Ayinla expressed profound gratitude for the royal visit and delivered an extensive address detailing the college's founding principles and current operations.
The Provost emphasized that Skyward College of Nursing Sciences was established with a clear mission to provide affordable, high-quality healthcare training while cultivating nurses who demonstrate exceptional moral integrity and professional competence. He highlighted the institution's strategic response to Nigeria's nursing shortage, particularly addressing the concerning trend of healthcare professionals migrating abroad for better opportunities.
Modern Facilities and Accreditation Standards
Provost Ayinla detailed the college's substantial investments in state-of-the-art facilities and advanced teaching technologies designed to create an optimal learning environment. These comprehensive resources ensure that students receive practical, hands-on training that meets international nursing standards while remaining accessible to local communities.
The college's educational standards have received formal validation through successful accreditation processes conducted by both the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) and the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE). This dual accreditation confirms the institution's compliance with national regulatory requirements for nursing education and technical training programs.
Scholarship Initiative and Admission Information
In a generous gesture supporting educational access, Oba Adewale Akanbi announced scholarship awards for the first five candidates who successfully enroll in the nursing program for the 2025/2026 academic session. This initiative aims to reduce financial barriers for aspiring nursing students while encouraging early applications to the college.
Provost Ayinla confirmed that admissions remain open for qualified candidates who have completed the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination. The scholarship program represents a collaborative effort between traditional leadership and educational institutions to strengthen healthcare workforce development in southwestern Nigeria.
Community Development and Leadership Appreciation
During his tour of the campus facilities, the Oluwo expressed admiration for the college's infrastructure and commended management for establishing such a valuable educational asset within Iwoland. He specifically acknowledged Professor Olurode's contributions to regional development, including ongoing renovation projects at Iwo Stadium that complement educational advancements.
Professor Olurode reciprocated by thanking the traditional ruler for his consistent support of healthcare education initiatives across Nigeria. He noted that Skyward College was founded from a profound sense of social responsibility to make quality education accessible to community members, and expressed satisfaction that this significant achievement occurred during Oba Akanbi's reign.
Distinguished Attendees
The event attracted numerous traditional leaders from Iwoland, including:
- Chief Yekeen Orobimpe, the Oosa of Iwoland
- Chief Aleem Saheed Adewale, the Mosalu of Iwoland
- Chief Kareem Kabiru Oyeleye, the Eesiki of Iwoland
- Chief Oyetunde Bamgboye, the Asalu of Iwoland
- Chief Samson Akanfe Adio, the Molebe of Iwoland
Their presence underscored the collective community commitment to advancing nursing education and healthcare services in Osun State through institutional partnerships and traditional leadership support.
