OGILO SKOPE (the speaking pen 🖊️)

  …Congratulates Management, Governing Council on Historic Achievement Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has expressed immense pride and joy over the recent recognition of Ekiti State University (EKSU) as the best state university in Nigeria.  This achievement was highlighted in the 2025 rankings by Times Higher Education, where EKSU also claimed the 12th spot among 270 public and private universities nationwide. In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, Governor Oyebanji commended the university’s Chancellor, Dr. Tunji Olowolafe, for his unwavering support and dedication to EKSU’s growth.  He also lauded the leadership of the Governing Council, chaired by Prof. Akin Oyebode, and the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Joseph Babatola Ayodele, for their commitment, which he credited as the driving force behind the milestone. Describing EKSU's success as a testament to the state’s investments in education and human capital development, the Gover...

The Governing Council of Ekiti State Polytechnic, Iṣan Ekiti, has named Mrs. Adewumi Abimbola Yetunde as the institution's new Registrar.  The announcement marks a new chapter for the polytechnic as it continues its commitment to academic excellence and efficient administration. Mrs. Adewumi brings a wealth of experience and academic qualifications to her new role. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Education (BA.Ed) in English from Lagos State University (LASU) and a Master’s degree in Human Resources Management from Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti.  Her membership in various professional organizations, including the Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM), the Institute of Corporate Administration (ICAD), and the Association of University Administrators, underscores her dedication to professional development. Before this appointment, Mrs. Adewumi served as Deputy Registrar in the School of Business Studies at the Federal Polytechnic, Ado Ekiti. Her extensive career at the ...

  The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved the renaming of the University of Abuja in honor of former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon. This decision, announced on Monday during the council's final meeting for 2024 at the Aso Rock Villa, Abuja, was disclosed by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris. “The Federal Executive Council has decided to rename the University of Abuja as Yakubu Gowon University,” Idris stated while addressing State House correspondents. He further clarified that the renaming process requires legislative approval from the National Assembly. “The council has resolved to forward the decision to the National Assembly for the necessary legislative procedures,” Idris added. In addition to this development, the minister announced that the council will proceed on recess from December 18, 2024, to January 6, 2025. Further updates on the renaming process and other decisions from the FEC meeting will be shared as they unfold. W...

A disturbing incident unfolded today at Rufus Giwa Polytechnic Owo as a lecturer allegedly assaulted an ND2 student during a morning examination at the Millennium B on campus. According to reports, the lecturer  pushed the student, sparking outrage among fellow students who witnessed the incident.  The situation escalated rapidly, leading to a tense confrontation between the students and the lecturer. To prevent further escalation, security operatives were called to the scene to intervene and de-escalate the situation. The timely arrival of security personnel helped to calm the agitated students and protect the lecturer. The incident has raised concerns about the conduct of some lecturers and the safety of students on campus.  Students have expressed their dissatisfaction with the increasing cases of harassment and intimidation by lecturers. As more details emerge, we will continue to provide updates on this developing story.

  The campus of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic is abuzz with activity as students prepare for their second semester exams, scheduled to commence on Monday, December 2, 2024. The Faculty of Social Sciences has released its timetable, following anticipation from all departments.  Notably, the school management has directed all faculties to handle the conduct of exams, marking a departure from previous practices. Students are advised to intensify their studies and preparations for the upcoming exams, which are expected to last for three weeks, concluding on December 18, 2024.  The exam period will span 14 working days. With the exams fast approaching, the polytechnic community is gearing up for a busy and intense period of academic activity.

  The Lagos State Government has announced a significant increase in boarding fees for students in its model colleges, effective from the 2024/2025 academic session starting September 15, 2024. According to a statement by the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, the new boarding fee will be N100,000, replacing the previous fee of N35,000, which has remained unchanged since 2021. Ganiu Lawal, Deputy Director of Public Affairs for the Ministry, explained that the increase is necessary to ensure better welfare for students, considering the rising cost of living. "The N35,000 boarding fee is unrealistic in 2024. The new fee will cater to quality food, education infrastructure, free tuition, technology support, adequate security, and payment of terminal examination fees," Lawal said. The Lagos State Government provides free education in 1,021 primary schools, 369 junior secondary schools, and 329 senior secondary schools, including 32 model colleges. However, parents have ex...

The management of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo, Ondo State, has issued a directive to all lecturers to submit students' results exactly six weeks after the first semester exams, in line with the institution's academic calendar and policy. This directive is contained in a circular dated September 5, signed by the Director of Academic Affairs, Ayodeji Akinsanmi. Lecturers were urged to comply with the directive, which was reiterated after a meeting held on August 26. The management emphasized the importance of adhering to the stipulated timeframe, warning that failure to do so would attract severe sanctions. Deans of faculties and heads of departments have been advised to ensure strict compliance with the directive, which aims to ensure academic excellence and timely result processing at the polytechnic.

  The House of Representatives Committee on Basic Education has thrown its weight behind the Federal Government's decision to peg the minimum age for candidates sitting for the Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination (SSCE) and Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) at 18. This decision, announced in July by the Minister of Education, Prof Tahir Mamman, has been generating heated debates among parents and education stakeholders. In an exclusive interview with  OGILOSKOPE the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Basic Education, Mark Useni, explained that the decision was taken to ensure that children pursue their education alongside their cognitive and physical development and maturity. Useni noted that the policy is not peculiar to Nigeria, citing military and paramilitary institutions which place the entry age at 18 years, as well as the voting age in Nigeria which is pegged at 18 years. However, in a recent development, the Minister of E...

  The Provost, Ekiti State College of Health Sciences and Technology, Ijero-Ekiti, Dr. (Mrs.) Olajumoke Adebayo has urged fresh graduands of the Institution’s Medical Image Processing X-ray Department to sustain the virtue of diligence that enabled them to succeed in the first phase of their career, as they strive to attain higher heights in their chosen profession. Delivering an address at the first induction ceremony of newly qualified X-ray Technicians of the College, Dr. Adebayo who was represented by her Deputy, *Mr.* Kayode Abolarin noted that the Health Institution had produced thorough bred X-Ray Technicians, whom he hinted would do Nigeria and the African continent proud. While appreciating the Radiographers Registration Board of Nigeria for the support rendered to the College over the years, the Provost urged Parents of the Inductees to support them in advancing their career. In his speech, the Registrar, Radiographers Registration Board of Nigeria (RRBN) , Prof. Mark C. ...

  The newly appointed Rector of the Ekiti State Polytechnic Iṣan Ekiti, Dr. Sunday Osinkolu Ajeigbe was conducted around the institution today to inspect various ongoing projects. Dr. Ajeigbe expressed satisfaction with the progress of several TetFund and State government intervention projects, which are contributing significantly to the infrastructure development of the Polytechnic. He commended the quality of work and reaffirmed the institution's commitment to fostering academic excellence through improved facilities. The Rector toured key sites, including the Research and Innovation Centre, the Skill Acquisition Development Centre, and the new Library, all of which are nearing completion. These projects are expected to boost research, skill acquisition, and learning resources for students and faculty members alike. Accompanying Dr. Ajeigbe on the inspection were prominent officials of the Polytechnic, including the Registrar, Mr. J.A.O. Olorunsola, the Bursar, Mr. J.O. Awe, the ...

In a ceremony held on Monday, September 2, 2024, at the 250 Capacity Lecture Theatre, Dr. Sunday Osinkolu Ajeigbe was officially inaugurated as the 2nd Substantive Rector of Ekiti State Polytechnic, Iṣan Ekiti.  According to the head, public relations unit EKSPOLY Martins Olowoyo, the event was attended by esteemed members of the Governing Council, staff, students, and dignitaries. Chairman of the Governing Council, Prof. Adedayo Fasakin congratulated Dr. Ajeigbe on his appointment and urged him to remain focused and progressive-minded.  He emphasized the need to expand academic programs at both ND and HND levels and expressed confidence in the new rector's leadership to propel the Polytechnic to new heights. In his inaugural address, Dr. Ajeigbe pledged to build on the solid foundation laid by his predecessor, Prof. Johnson Kayode Adesodun.  He also promised to work diligently towards achieving greater success for the institution, focusing on enhancing academic standards...

  ...Advocates compulsory education for children of school age Ekiti State First Lady, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, has embarked on an educational empowerment exercise, distributing school materials to pupils and students across 10 local governments in preparation for the new academic session. The initiative, which aims to promote compulsory education for children of school age, has already benefited local governments including Moba, Ilejemeje, Oye, Ikole, Efon, Ekiti West, Ijero, Ido-Osi, Ekiti East, Gbonyin, Ise/Orun, and Emure. Represented by Mrs. Kemi Dairo, coordinator of her pet project, Widows, Aged, Orphans and Hope Initiative (WAOH), Dr. Oyebanji emphasized the importance of education in unlocking future potential and achieving success. She urged beneficiaries to utilize the materials wisely and stay focused on their studies. The First Lady expressed gratitude for the cooperation of grassroots administrations and solicited continued support through prayers for more developmental ...

  The Federal Government is holding an emergency meeting with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) to prevent a planned nationwide strike.  The meeting, convened by Education Minister Prof Tahir Mamman, aims to address ASUU's demands, including better welfare, increased funding for universities, and an end to the proliferation of universities. ASUU had threatened to strike over the government's alleged failure to honor the 2009 renegotiated agreement.  The meeting, attended by ASUU representatives, past presidents, and top education officials, is focused on preventing another nationwide strike and ensuring security in the education sector. The government has expressed its commitment to deepening security in the education system and ensuring students remain on campus.  The meeting is ongoing, with a closed-door session currently underway. ASUU's demands include: - Improved welfare for members - Increased funding for universities - An end to the proliferatio...

  The Ekiti State Government, under the leadership of Governor Biodun Oyebanji, is making significant strides in the education sector.  Recent initiatives include: - Recruitment of 1,500 primary school teachers and 930 secondary school teachers to enhance the quality of education - Installation of internet facilities in 92 selected schools - Procurement and installation of solar inverters in 140 schools - Training of 544 trainers on Digital Literacy Skills - Training of 200 ICT teachers on Remote Learning Platforms - Conditional cash transfer to parents of 2,808 indigent students during the 2023/2024 session These remarkable initiatives demonstrate the Oyebanji administration's commitment to improving educational outcomes and providing a conducive learning environment for students in Ekiti State.

  The Federal Government's recent directive banning under-18 candidates from sitting for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) and National Examination Council (NECO) has sparked a heated debate.  The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has condemned the policy, while the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has backed it. The Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, announced the new age policy, setting the minimum age at 18, citing the need for students to complete the requisite number of years in school before advancing to tertiary education.  However, NUT Secretary-General, Dr. Mike Ene, argued that the policy is unrealistic, given the economic pressures that lead to early enrollment in schools. ASUU National President, Prof. Emmanuel Osodeke, personally supported the policy, emphasizing the importance of standard academic progression and emotional maturity.  Meanwhile, the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and NECO have stat...

  The meeting between the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and the Federal Government, scheduled for Monday, has been postponed to Wednesday, August 28.  The meeting aimed to address outstanding issues hindering the development of Nigerian universities. ASUU President, Professor Emmanuel Osodeke, confirmed the postponement without providing a reason.  This comes after ASUU issued a 21-day strike notice to the Federal Government over unresolved issues, including: 1. Emergency revitalization fund for public universities 2. Payment of outstanding earned academic allowances 3. Release of withheld salaries, promotion arrears, and third-party deductions 4. Stoppage of illegal recruitments 5. Proliferation of public universities/abuse of universities' laws and regulations 6. Removal of universities from the treasury single account 7. New IPPIS to herald university autonomy The postponed meeting is now expected to take place on August 28, with the hope of resolving the...

  The Federal Government has revealed that only eight universities in Togo and Benin Republic are accredited to award degrees to Nigerian students.  Minister of Education, Tahir Mamman, made this known on Channels Television's Sunday Politics program. According to Mamman, the decision follows an investigation into degree certificate racketeering, which found that over 22,500 Nigerians obtained fake degree certificates from universities in the two countries. The affected certificates will be cancelled. The accredited universities in Togo are: 1. Universite De Lome 2. Universite De Kara 3. Catholic University of West Africa In Benin Republic, the accredited universities are: 1. Universite D’abomey-Calavi 2. Universite De Parakou 3. Universite Nationale Des Sciences, Technologis Ingenierie Et Mathematiques 4. Universite Nationale D’ Agriculture 5. Universite Africaine De Development Cooperatif Mamman emphasized that the Federal Government will not reverse its decision to cancel t...

  The authorities of Ekiti State Polytechnic, Isan Ekiti, have announced the commencement of the admission exercise for the 2024/2025 academic session.  The exercise is for admission into the institution's four National Diploma (ND) programs. To be eligible, candidates must have: - Chosen the Polytechnic as their first choice in the 2024 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examinations (UTME) - Scored 100 marks or above in the UTME Candidates who meet the eligibility criteria are directed to visit the Polytechnic Portal at  https://ekspoly.edu.ng  to register for the mandatory screening. Additionally, candidates who did not choose the institution as their first choice but wish to explore admission possibilities are advised to effect a change of institution accordingly. The Polytechnic also reminds prospective candidates to upload their O'level results on their respective dashboard on JAMB CAPS, in line with the directives of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (J...

Governor Biodun Oyebanji has approved the appointment of Dr. Sunday Osinkolu Ajeigbe as the new Rector of Ekiti State Polytechnic, Isan-Ekiti, effective September 2, 2024.  According to a statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Yinka Oyebode, Dr. Ajeigbe succeeds Prof. Johnson Kayode Adesodun, whose tenure ends on September 1, 2024. Dr. Ajeigbe, a chemistry expert with a PhD from Universiti Teknologi, Malaysia, brings extensive academic and administrative experience to the role.  He previously served as Deputy Rector at Federal Polytechnic Ile-Oluji, Ondo State, and held various positions at Federal Polytechnic Bida, Niger State. Governor Oyebanji urges Dr. Ajeigbe to leverage his expertise to reposition the polytechnic as a world-class institution of technical education.  The Governor also expresses gratitude to the outgoing Rector, Prof. Adesodun, and appreciation to the Governing Council for their diligence in the selection process. Biographical ...

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has given the Federal Government a 21-day ultimatum to address the lingering issues affecting Nigeria's universities, warning of an impending showdown if their demands are not met. ASUU President, Prof. Emmanuel Osodeke, issued the ultimatum during a press conference at the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike (MOUAU), Abia State, citing the government's failure to fulfill its promises and address the issues that led to last year's nine-month strike. Osodeke lamented the poor funding of universities, breach of international protocols, and the government's "self-serving approach" to education.  He emphasized that ASUU's struggle for better funding is crucial for national development and urged the government to restart the abandoned renegotiation of the 2009 Agreement. The union's demands include: - Adequate funding of universities and education sector - Implementation of the 2009 Agreement - In...