The Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Adebo Ogundoyin, on Wednesday led deliberations on a motion seeking the upgrade of the Oyo State College of Agriculture and Technology (OYSCATECH), Igboora, to a full-fledged university.
Ogundoyin described the proposed upgrade as a strategic move to address what he termed a long-standing imbalance in the distribution of higher institutions across Oyo State, noting that the Ibarapa geopolitical zone currently lacks a university.
“OYSCATECH has evolved into a reputable institution with proven academic and technical capacity in agricultural training and manpower development. The institution is bless with over 500 staff, about 4,000 hectares of land, six faculties, more than fifty academic buildings and functional laboratories making it suitably positioned for conversion.โ
The motion, co-sponsored by Peter Ojedokun representing Ibarapa North/Central and seconded by Rahman Olorunpoto Cephas (Oyo East/West), highlighted the institutionโs readiness for conversion, citing its academic capacity, infrastructure, and manpower.
Lawmakers noted that OYSCATECH boasts over 500 staff, about 4,000 hectares of land, six faculties, and more than fifty academic buildings equipped with functional laboratories, positioning it as a viable candidate for university status.
The House also referenced regulatory backing, stating that the National Universities Commission has approved the commencement of 16 degree programmes in affiliation with the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, while JAMB has recognized the institution as a degree-awarding body under affiliation.
According to the motion, the passage of an enabling law by the State Assembly remains the key requirement for the transition, with essential documents such as the Academic Brief and Physical Master Plan already in place.
It further revealed that over 70 scholars, including more than 20 professors and readers, have expressed willingness to support the proposed university, even on a pro bono basis.
In its resolutions, the Assembly commended Governor Seyi Makinde for his commitment to education and mandated the House Committee on Education to begin immediate amendment of the law establishing OYSCATECH.
The lawmakers also urged the executive arm to approve the upgrade to the proposed Oyo State University of Agriculture and Technology, Igboora, while calling for adequate funding, policy support, and collaboration with regulatory bodies to ensure a smooth transition.