A new chapter in the story of town-and-gown collaboration was written today as the Soun of Ogbomoso, His Royal Majesty, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, graced the Federal Polytechnic Ayede with a historic visit. The royal courtesy visit, held at the institution’s Iresa Apa campus, drew attention from traditional leaders, education stakeholders, and community members, all eager to witness the growing relationship between the Polytechnic and its host community.
A new chapter in the story of town-and-gown collaboration was written today as the Soun of Ogbomoso, His Royal Majesty, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, graced the Federal Polytechnic Ayede with a historic visit. The royal courtesy visit, held at the institution’s Iresa Apa campus, drew attention from traditional leaders, education stakeholders, and community members, all eager to witness the growing relationship between the Polytechnic and its host community.
In his welcome address, the Rector commended Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye and the entire Ogbomoso traditional council for their unwavering support of the institution. He acknowledged past donations and contributions made to aid the development of the school, but also used the occasion to passionately appeal for continued and increased support. According to the Rector, the Polytechnic still faces critical challenges, with road infrastructure being a major concern hindering access to the permanent site. He revealed that efforts were made in the past, including engagements with the Ecological Office, to seek interventions, a move backed by prominent academic figures such as Prof. Shola Adepoju
In a move that underscores his cultural sensitivity and vision, the Rector announced that the institution has already introduced a new course titled “History and Culture of Ogbomoso”. The course, which is now a mandatory part of the curriculum, will be taken by all students who pass through the Polytechnic. According to the Rector, this initiative serves as a meaningful contribution to the host community by preserving its heritage and deepening students appreciation of their environment. He emphasized that it is not only a step toward cultural education but also a way to root the institution firmly in the identity of Ogbomoso land. Notably, the course was meticulously vetted by Professor Razaq Olatunde Rom Kalilu, the Vice Chancellor of Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) and an esteemed indigene of Ogbomoso, ensuring its academic rigor and cultural relevance.
Highlighting the institution’s achievements, the Rector stated that among the six institutions established around the same period, Federal Polytechnic Ayede has distinguished itself. The NBTE has always had good words for our team. We are making significant strides in technical education, he proudly noted.
Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, in his remarks, expressed deep appreciation for the Polytechnic’s progress and leadership. He praised the Rector for his dynamic management and shared his optimism about the institution’s future. He encouraged the management to set standards so high that other institutions would emulate Federal Polytechnic Ayede. Drawing from his own educational background, the Soun likened the school’s potential to that of the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University), where he studied. He recalled the legacy of Prof. Hezekiah Oluwasanmi, the pioneering Vice Chancellor of the then University of Ife, whose visionary leadership and foundational work laid the groundwork for one of Africa’s most respected universities. The Soun urged the Polytechnic to emulate such models of purposeful academic growth and transformational leadership.
The Monarch also called for more conscious efforts to cater to the needs of indigenes, urging the Polytechnic to ensure inclusive development. Let the institution reflect the hopes and aspirations of the Ogbomoso people, he advised, adding that development should not be limited to academic work, but include cultural preservation and community engagement.
Adding his voice to the occasion, the Oba of Iresa Apa, His Royal Majesty Oba Moses Olayiwola Ajiboye, warmly thanked Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye for his impactful visit and contributions to the growth of the region. He lauded the Polytechnic’s leadership for consistently involving traditional rulers in its progress and vision.
In a passionate appeal, Oba Moses Olayiwola Ajiboye pleaded with the Soun to use his influence with Governor Seyi Makinde to urgently address the poor state of roads across Ogbomoso land and its suburbs. All the roads are in terrible condition. We need government intervention now more than ever, he said, highlighting how infrastructural development would enhance access, safety, and the overall economic life of the people.
The event was witnessed by a long list of dignitaries, including the Alajaawa of Ajaawa in Ogo-Oluwa Local Government Area, His Royal Majesty, Oba Thompson Oyetunji Adeyeye; the Aare-Ago of Ogbomosoland, High Chief Samuel Sobalaje Otolorin; Iyalode of Ogbomosoland, High Chief (Mrs.) Rebecca Ogundare, Special Assistant to Oba Olaoye on Media and Community Relations and several other high-ranking chiefs such as High Chief Sunday Ademola Ogunmola (the Alaje of Aje). The presence of these respected figures added cultural weight to the day’s proceedings and reflected a shared vision for the future of education in the region.
The closing remarks delivered on behalf of the institution by the Deputy Rector, Mr. Ojo, who expressed gratitude for the monarch’s support and reaffirmed the Polytechnic’s commitment to academic Victory and community engagement.
As the visit came to a close, it was clear that this was not merely a ceremonial gathering but a historic and strategic courtesy visit that deepened the bond between Federal Polytechnic Ayede and the traditional leadership of Ogbomoso land. The engagement underscored a shared commitment to progress where education, culture, and community development go hand in hand. With Royal Fathers like Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye and Oba Moses Olayiwola Ajiboye lending their influence and wisdom, the future of the institution and by extension, the region is set on a promising path of transformation and excellence.
