Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has assured that his administration will continue to provide adequate funding for all government-owned tertiary institutions in the state.
He spoke at the 3rd Convocation Ceremony of the Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology (OAUSTECH) in Okitipupa on Tuesday.
Governor Aiyedatiwa commended the institution’s remarkable growth in recent years and pledged more support, including backing its plans to establish a new Faculty of Medical Sciences.
Highlighting the critical role of education in societal development, the Governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to enhancing the state’s education sector through improved infrastructure and funding.
“As we gather here to celebrate the achievements of our graduating students, I want to assure you that our government remains dedicated to transforming the education sector. OAUSTECH is a reflection of our collective aspirations for academic excellence and intellectual advancement,” he stated.
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Governor Aiyedatiwa outlined several projects aimed at boosting the university’s development.
These include the completion of the Maritime Transport and Logistics Academy at Ugbonla, the rapid execution of abandoned hostels under the Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC), and the rehabilitation of ageing facilities.
He also revealed ongoing discussions with the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to complete an abandoned hostel project.
The governor underscored OAUSTECH’s strategic role in the emerging Marine and Blue Economy fields, aligning with the state’s plans to develop a deep-sea port.
He noted that the project would significantly drive economic growth and position Ondo State as a major maritime hub.
Commending the university’s management, led by Vice-Chancellor Prof. Temi Emmanuel Ologunorisa, Governor Aiyedatiwa lauded the institution’s steady rise in student enrollment, from 400 in the 2020/2021 academic session to 2,800 in 2024/2025.
He also celebrated two faculty members for their outstanding contributions to academia: Dr Bartholomew Adeleke, recognised among the world’s top two per cent of scientists by Elsevier and Stanford University.
Dr Alaba Joseph Adebayo won the 2025 Nigerian Society of Physical Sciences (NSPS) Best PhD Thesis Prize in Chemistry.
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Congratulating the graduating students, the governor encouraged them to embrace continuous learning, innovation, and excellence in their future pursuits.
In response, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Ologunorisa expressed gratitude for the Governor’s support and reaffirmed the university’s commitment to sustained academic growth and excellence.
During the ceremony, 995 students received their first-degree certificates, with 31 graduating with First Class honours.
