The governor of Osun State, Ademola Adeleke, on Tuesday announced the formation of an 11-member ad hoc committee to examine the University of Ilesa, claiming that the previous administration politicized the project.
The Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Prof. Ashaolu Taiwo-led committee was tasked with reviewing and evaluating funding requirements within six weeks for both capital and recurring expenses related to the university's eventual dissolution, among other things.
Prof. Oyesoji Aremu, Prof. Lukman Jumoda, Prof. David Oladeji, Prof. Dayo Akintayo, Prof. (Mrs.) Adefunke, Dr. Mutalib Akanmu, Hon. Bamidele Salam, Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning, Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Education, and Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Justice were the other members of the committee.
Adeleke tasked the committee with rectifying all wrongs and expressed displeasure over what he described as the previous government's politicization of the university project when he inaugurated the committee in Osogbo.
“My first conviction is that Ilesa indeed deserves a University considering the achievements of Ijesha people at home and abroad,” the governor stated, adding that he had developed a deep interest in the University of Ilesa issue prior to the state's most recent governorship election.
“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,” he added.
"This issue at hand touches the heart and soul of our people," Governor Adeleke said, highlighting the committee's core responsibilities and describing the assignment as a sacred responsibility.
“As a result, you are expected to use your extensive experience to complete this historic 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." He stated to the members of the committee.
According to Adeleke, the members of the committee have been given the responsibility to "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.”
