Ekiti State Governor,Mr Biodun Oyebanji has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the education sector as a driver of sustainable development, describing it as the foundation of any progressive society.
Oyebanji made this known at the second convocation ceremony of Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology (BOUESTI), held in Ikere-Ekiti.
Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Habibat Adubiaro, the governor said the state government would continue to invest in higher institutions to ensure they produce graduates who are academically sound, innovative and morally grounded.
He stressed that education remains central to the state’s development agenda and a critical tool for societal transformation.
The governor congratulated the Chancellor, Chief Wole Olanipekun (CFR, SAN); the Pro-Chancellor, Prof. Dipo Aina; the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Andrew Babatunde Omojola; as well as members of the Governing Council, Senate, staff and students on the successful hosting of the convocation.
He also commended the pioneer Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Victor Adeoluwa, for laying a solid foundation that has enabled the institution to record remarkable growth within a short period.
Oyebanji described convocation as more than a ceremonial event, noting that it celebrates discipline, resilience and intellectual development, while marking the beginning of a new phase of responsibility for graduates.
He urged the graduating students to see their certificates as a call to service and to become job creators, innovators and solution providers rather than job seekers.
The governor said BOUESTI occupies a strategic position in the state’s development agenda, particularly in teacher education, science and technology, which he identified as critical to economic growth and societal advancement.
He assured the university community of continued government support in infrastructure, research and academic excellence to enable the institution compete globally.
In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Andrew Babatunde Omojola, expressed appreciation to the governor for his consistent support for the institution.
He described the governor’s approval for the construction of a five-kilometre intra-campus road as a landmark intervention that would ease movement and accelerate the physical development of the campus.
Also speaking, the Chancellor, Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), commended the governor for his leadership and dedication to advancing education in the state.
Olanipekun described Oyebanji as “a young man after my heart,” a remark that drew applause from the audience.
The university management also appealed for sustained government support, particularly in the area of furnishing of the institution’s Senate Building as well as in the construction and rehabilitation of roads within the campus.
It expressed optimism that the commitments would be fulfilled to enhance the university’s growth and global relevance.