Oyo State Government Seeks Synergy with Private Tertiary Institutions for Educational Growth

The Oyo State Government, through the Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology, has emphasized the need for stronger collaboration with private tertiary institutions operating within the state. This call was made by the Commissioner for Education, Science, and Technology, Prof. Salihu Adelabu, during a stakeholder meeting with heads of private universities, polytechnics, monotechnics, colleges of education, and colleges of health sciences.

Prof. Adelabu highlighted that fostering a robust partnership between the state government and private educational institutions is crucial for stimulating growth in the education sector. He urged the operators of these institutions to work closely with the Ministry for the overall benefit of students and the development of tertiary education in the state.

“The purpose of today’s meeting is to establish a strong synergy between the Ministry of Education and all private tertiary institutions in Oyo State. There is no way private institutions can solely interact with regulatory bodies such as the NUC without engaging with the Ministry of Education at the state level,” Prof. Adelabu said.

He encouraged all private tertiary institutions to visit the Department of Higher and Continuing Education for proper documentation and registration, noting that this would ensure effective monitoring and quality assurance.

“We want to ensure the quality of teaching and learning within these institutions. Our Monitoring and Evaluation Unit needs to assess the standards of education, the quality of lecturers, and the research being conducted to uphold academic excellence,” he added.

Prof. Adelabu further emphasized the role of private institutions in research and community service, stressing that the Ministry is open to collaborative research proposals and community-oriented initiatives that will benefit the state.

“We also want to encourage private institutions to collaborate with us instead of seeking partnerships abroad in places like Rwanda and Zambia. There are immense benefits to this collaboration, including shared resources and expertise,” he said.

The Commissioner also introduced new technological initiatives to drive teaching, research, and community service in these institutions, noting that representatives from telecommunications provider Glo were invited to share insights on leveraging technology to enhance educational outcomes.

In his remarks, the Executive Assistant to the Governor on Security, CP Sunday Odukoya (Rtd.), advised private institutions to ensure proper registration with the Ministry and prioritize security on their campuses. He noted that the state government has made significant investments in improving security to create an enabling environment for businesses and educational institutions.

Dr. Adewale Adesina, proprietor of ADECOM College of Business and Management, commended the Oyo State Government and the Ministry of Education for organizing the meeting. He expressed optimism that the dialogue would strengthen the cordial relationship between private tertiary institutions and the state government.

The meeting was also attended by the Coordinating Director of the Ministry, Mrs. Christiana Bolaji, and the Director of Higher and Continuing Education, Mr. Oluwole Adewale, along with heads of private tertiary institutions in Oyo State.

The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to supporting private institutions in ensuring quality education, enhancing research capabilities, and fostering community service for the overall advancement of the state’s educational system.