Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving tertiary education and agricultural development through inclusive dialogue and targeted investments, following a high-level stakeholders’ meeting at the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Iseyin Campus.
The meeting, held on Thursday, brought together university administrators, academic staff, community leaders, students’ representatives, and other key stakeholders to deliberate on pressing issues affecting the smooth operation of the College of Agricultural Sciences and Renewable Natural Resources.
Governor Makinde explained that the engagement was in fulfilment of his earlier promise to personally interact with stakeholders in order to gain first-hand insight into the challenges confronting the institution and to jointly develop sustainable solutions.
Addressing the gathering, the governor emphasized the importance of collective responsibility in resolving the issues raised, noting that government alone cannot drive development without the sincere cooperation of all parties involved.
“After listening to the issues raised, I encouraged all present to work with us sincerely to resolve them,” Makinde said.
Key concerns discussed at the meeting included infrastructural deficiencies, inadequate facilities for teaching and research, and the need for improved operational support to enhance academic activities at the campus.
In response, the governor announced plans to allocate a special intervention fund to provide essential facilities required for the effective functioning of the college. He noted that the intervention would focus on priority areas that directly impact learning, research, and agricultural innovation.
“I promised to allocate a special intervention fund to provide some of the facilities needed,” he stated.
Governor Makinde also urged the university’s management to strengthen collaboration with the private sector, particularly in areas that do not require direct government intervention. According to him, strategic partnerships with private investors and organizations could help accelerate development, attract modern facilities, and introduce innovative practices in agricultural education and research.
He stressed that such partnerships would not only reduce the financial burden on the state government but also expose students to real-world agricultural and business practices.
The governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to people-centred governance, stating that education, agriculture, and youth development remain central to his policy agenda.
“Our focus is on policies that directly improve the lives of our people, especially our youths, who are the future of this state,” Makinde said.
Stakeholders at the meeting commended the governor for his responsiveness and willingness to engage directly with the university community. They expressed optimism that the proposed intervention fund and private-sector collaborations would significantly improve facilities and enhance the academic environment at the Iseyin Campus.
The engagement is part of the Oyo State Government’s broader efforts to strengthen higher education, promote agricultural innovation, and position the state as a hub for sustainable development and food security.