By Oluwatomilayo Lala
The Governor of Osun state, Senator Ademola Adeleke, on Tuesday, formally inaugurated an ad-hoc committee for the University of Ilesa with the pledge of his administration to satisfy the needs of the good people of Ilesa land and it’s environs.
In his presentation at the government office in Osogbo, the Governor mentioned said
“Before and after the governorship election, I developed a deep interest in the issue of the University of Ilesa. My first conviction is that Ilesa indeed deserves a University considering the achievements of Ilesa people at home and abroad. I was however worried about the politicisation of the project.
“The last administration avoided due diligence and comprehensive project report. Instead, it opted for political action on a subject that demands thorough planning, covering financial and academic forecast and provision.”
Governor Adeleke announced Professor Taiwo Ashaolu of Obafemi Awolowo University as the Chairman of the committee, while other members include Prof. Oyesoji Aremu, Prof. Lukman Jumoda, Prof. Dayo Akintayo, Prof. (Mrs) Adefunke, Dr. Mutaib Akanmu, Hon. Bamidele Salam, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice.
He, however, encouraged the newly inaugurated committee to take their assignment as a sacred responsibility and bring their wealth of experience to bear on the discharge of this historic task.
” Review and assess funding requirements for both capital and recurrent expenditures for the eventual take-off of the university;
” Review and assess the sources of funds for both capital and recurrent expenditure for the eventual take-off of the University;
“Generally review the implementation guidelines proposed by the Implementation Committee;
“Engage all relevant stakeholders including the host community, trade Unions, Alumni association of the College, the student body, etc. with a view to harmonising the position for the way forward.
“Identify the gaps within the UNILESA Establishment Law and make appropriate recommendations towards its amendment to make sure it’s relevant for the eventual take-off of the University.
” Propose modalities for phased implementation of the University such that faculties and courses of study are matched with a funding requirement of each phase of the implementation; and
“Evaluate and draw appropriate policy recommendations towards the execution of the existing obligations, assets and liabilities of the College of Education, Ilesa with a view to removing all impediments for the eventual take-off of the University.”
“I have no doubt in my mind that you will submit a report that will provide a road map for a great university of Ilesa” He concluded.
During an interview with the chairman of the committee Prof. Asaolu, he appreciated the state government for the privilege and also promised to deliver the task diligently.
“He gave us six weeks, and with that that we shall work with him, we are giving him that assurance ” Prof. Asaolu promised
