Commissioner for Education Pledges Better Days for MAPOLY

By Olusegun Folarin

The Ogun State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Professor Abayomi Arigbabu has assured the staff of the state – owned Moshood Abiola Polytechnic, MAPOLY, Abeokuta of the present administration’s commitment to addressing their needs.

Professor Arigbabu who gave the assurance at a valedictory programme in honour of a former Rector of the Polytechnic, Architect Tokunbo Fowode said the relevant authorities were working towards resolving the institution’s problems. 

Speaking about the retired Rector, the Commissioner described Architect Fowode as a stalwart academic whose dedication and commitment remained indelible.

” I want to appreciate the members of staff of MAPOLY for their dedication, though it’s work in progress and I want to assure you that by God’s grace, we will solve all these problems’

“I also appreciate the student Union, they have also been very understanding and supporting, the meeting we held, I appeal to them to give peace a chance, let us look for situation whereby we can make MAPOLY at least uninterrupted session and we are enjoying the peace today”

Similarly, the incumbent Rector of MAPOLY, Dr Adeoye Odedeji acknowledged that the contributions made by Architect Fowode as a lecturer and subsequently a Rector of the Polytechnic had brought glory to the school. 

In a paper entitled “Sustainable Leadership in the Tertiary Institutions and the future of Nigerian Development” the Pioneer Vice Chancellor, Tai Solarin University of Education, Professor Kayode Oyesiku said investment in critical infrastructure would facilitate economic progress and enhance the living standard of the people. 

Professor Oyesiku emphasized that ensuring increased funding and resource allocation to enhance infrastructure and educational quality remained the fundamental building block for sustainable and prosperous future for Nigeria. 

He highlighted some of the exemplary legacies of Architect Fowode in the institution to include the establishment of the Academic Planning  Directorate as well the Introduction of 2-year Part-time programme to replace the old 3-year system.

In a remark, the Deputy Rector and Chairman Planning Committee for the Valedictory programme, Dr Yetunde Lanre-Iyanda said the former rector was a visionary leader who dedicated his time for the advancement of education and the betterment of the academic community.

Friends, families and professional colleagues of the retired Rector also took turns to eulogize his immense contributions, describing him as an icon, a father, administrator and philanthropist par excellence.