Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has reiterated his administration’s dedication to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship among youths.
He emphasised the importance of equipping them with the skills and mindset necessary for self-reliance, job creation, and economic independence.
Speaking yesterday at the first convocation ceremony of Bamidele Olumilua University of Science and Technology, Ikere-Ekiti (BOUESTI), Governor Oyebanji highlighted his government’s investment in entrepreneurial and innovation centres across the state.
These initiatives, he said, aim to position graduates not just as employees but as employers, innovators, and solution providers.
The event was attended by prominent dignitaries, including the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele.
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The governor commended the university’s achievements in less than five years, applauding its efforts in producing graduates equipped with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the institution’s growth, promising continued investment in infrastructure, resources, and support to ensure its advancement as a centre of excellence.
“Our government recognizes the need to equip youths with not just academic knowledge but also practical skills that prepare them for the demands of a rapidly evolving world,” Oyebanji stated.
“This is why we prioritize entrepreneurial skills development and have established entrepreneurial and innovation centres across the state. These centres are designed to empower students and young professionals with the tools and mindset necessary for economic independence.”
The governor congratulated the graduating students, urging them to apply their acquired knowledge toward service, innovation, and excellence.
In his address, the Chancellor of the university, Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), praised Governor Oyebanji for his unwavering support in developing the institution.
He noted that the governor’s commitment to education has been instrumental in positioning BOUESTI as a hub for academic excellence and skill development.
Similarly, the university’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Olufemi Adeoluwa, highlighted BOUESTI’s notable achievements, including being named the Best University of Education in Sub-Saharan Africa by the University of Rwanda, Kigali, in 2022.
He further stated that the institution had secured accreditation for 78 programs from the National Universities Commission, seen an increase in student enrollment, and developed a well-equipped library with free internet access.
Prof. Adeoluwa also announced that a total of 1,109 students graduated this year, with 37 earning First Class honours, 426 in the Second Class Upper Division, 586 in the Second Class Lower Division, and 60 in the Third Class category.
A major highlight of the convocation was the conferment of honorary degrees to four distinguished personalities.
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The honorees included: Peter Mbah, Governor of Enugu State – Doctor of Humane Letters, Senator Mohammed Sanni Musa, Chairman, Senate Committee on Finance – Doctor of Public Policy—Tunji Olowolafe, Chancellor, Ekiti State University – Doctor of Business Administration and Oba Adu Alagbado, Ogoga of Ikere-Ekiti – Doctor of Public Administration
Speaking on behalf of the awardees, Governor Mbah expressed gratitude to Governor Oyebanji and BOUESTI for recognizing their contributions to national development.
He described the honorary degrees as a motivation to continue working towards societal progress.
The convocation ceremony also underscored the growing significance of the Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport, Ado-Ekiti, as several dignitaries flew in, with about five aircraft landing at the facility.
