By HeapNews
Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has approved the conversion of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo, into the University of Agriculture and Agribusiness. The move is aimed at positioning the institution as a model for the state’s agricultural and food security revolution initiative.
Announcing the upgrade after his inauguration, Governor Aiyedatiwa stated, “This transformation is a strategic step towards enhancing agricultural education and agribusiness in our state. The institution will serve as a hub for research, training, and practical exposure for students in agriculture and related fields.”
He assured that the transition will not negatively impact current students and staff, adding that a committee will be set up to oversee the implementation process.
In a further push to boost agriculture in the state, the Governor approved a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the government and AgroMall Discovery and Extension Limited. The agreement will inject N15 billion into the Young Ranchers Agricultural Cluster Development Programme, targeting youth involvement in practical farming.
“This initiative will provide hands-on agricultural training for students and create employment opportunities for young people,” Aiyedatiwa emphasized.
The program will utilize five hectares of land in three different clusters, with three higher institutions—including the newly upgraded university—serving as host beneficiaries. Aside from training students, the institutions will also earn a percentage of proceeds from the project.
In another development, the Governor approved an MoU with BBA Consult to develop and deploy a secured ICT system aimed at improving state resource planning and revenue generation.
“Our goal is to enhance internally generated revenue through a more efficient and transparent system. This initiative will be implemented on a Build, Operate, and Transfer basis,” Aiyedatiwa explained.