Gov Aiyedatiwa Approves Upgrade Of Ondo Poly To Agric Varsity
Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has approved the conversion of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic (RUGIPO) in Owo into a University of Agriculture and Agribusiness. This decision follows a review of an earlier proposal to upgrade the institution into a University of Management Science and Technology under the previous administration.
The upgrade to a University of Agriculture and Agribusiness was announced by Governor Aiyedatiwa on his assumption of office as the 7th elected governor of Ondo State. He emphasized that the new institution would serve as a model for the state’s agricultural and food security revolution initiative.
Governor Aiyedatiwa assured that the transformation would not adversely affect the current students and staff of the institution. A committee will be established to work on the specifics of the implementation process.
In addition, the governor approved a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the state government and AgroMall Discovery and Extension Limited, a private investor. The MoU, worth N15 billion, is aimed at a youth-oriented agriculture initiative in the state. The initiative, known as the Young Ranchers Agricultural Cluster Development Programme, will involve three higher institutions, including the newly upgraded RUGIPO, and focus on practical farming and training for students in agriculture and related fields.
Each institution involved will also benefit from the proceeds of the program, further bolstering the state’s agricultural development.
Furthermore, Governor Aiyedatiwa signed an MoU with BBA Consult for the development and deployment of a secure ICT system to improve the state’s resource planning and management, with a goal to increase revenue generation. The agreement will be executed on a Build, Operate, and Transfer (BOT) basis, aiming to reform the state’s internally generated revenue profile.
These initiatives underscore Governor Aiyedatiwa’s commitment to strengthening Ondo State’s agricultural sector and enhancing its economic growth through strategic partnerships and investments.
