The Governor of Osun, Senator Ademola Adeleke has inaugurated Adhoc review committee for University of Ilesa.
Speaking at the inauguration on Tuesday, Gov Adeleke charged the committee to be proactive in the discharge of their duties.
The eleven- man committee to be head by Prof. Ashaolu Taiwo of the Obafemi Awolowo University as Chairman , also have the following as members;
Prof. Oyesoji Aremu
Prof. Lukman Jumoda
Prof. David Oladeji
Prof. Dayo Akintayo
Prof. (Mrs) Adefunke
Dr Mutalib Akanmu
Hon Bamidele Salam
P.ermanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning
P.ermanent Secretary, Ministry of Education
Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice
According to Governor Adeleke, “It is my pleasure to convey this gathering to address a matter that is of utmost interest to our administration. Ijeshaland is a territory of interest to personal interest to our government. Our administration is therefore committed to satisfying the needs and aspirations of the good people of Ilesa and environs.
“Before and after the governorship election, I developed deep interest on the issue of University of Ilesa. My first conviction is that Ilesa indeed deserves a University considering the achievements of Ijesha people at home and abroad. I was however worried about the politicisation of the project. The last administration avoided due diligence and comprehensive project report. Instead, it opted for political action on a subject that demands thorough planning ,covering financial and academic forecast and provision.
“This administration is however committed to doing the right thing. The ultimate goal is to ensure that the interest of Ijeshaland is adequately protected and satisfied. My desire is to have in place a University of Ilesa that will be sustainable, a university that will be one of the best in the country”.
However, the terms of reference of the committee are as follows,
Review and assess funding requirements for both capital and recurrent expenditures for the eventual take off of the university;
Review and assess the sources of funds for both capital and recurrent expenditure for the eventual take off of the University;
Generally review the implementation guidelines proposed by the Implementation Committee;
Engage all relevant stakeholders including the host community, trade Unions, Alumni association of the College,the student body, etc. with a view to harmonize the position for the way forward;
Identify the gaps within the UNILESA Establishment Law and make appropriate recommendations towards its amendment to ensure adequate coverage of relevant interests for the eventual take off of the University;
Propose modalities for phased implementation of the University such that faculties and courses of study are matched with funding requirement of each phase of the implementation; and
Evaluate and draw appropriate policy recommendations towards the execution of the existing obligations, assets and liabilities of the College of Education, Ilesa with a view to removing all impediments for the eventual take off of the University.
Gov Adeleke urged the committee to take the assignment as a sacred responsibility. Because the issue at hand touches the heart and soul of the people. Therefore they are expected to bring wealth of experience to bear on the discharge of their historical task.
“I have no doubt in my mind that you will submit a report that will provide a road map for a great University of Ilesa”. Adeleke added.
“You have six weeks to conclude this assignment”.
