Aiyedatiwa approves upgrade of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic to University of Agriculture

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has approved the upgrade and conversion of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo, into a University of Agriculture and Agribusiness.

The decision was announced in a statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan, who explained that the review followed an initial proposal to upgrade the institution.

According to Adeniyan, the previous administration had planned to transform the polytechnic into a University of Management Science and Technology. However, upon assuming office, Governor Aiyedatiwa approved its conversion into a University of Agriculture and Agribusiness, aligning it with the state’s agricultural and food security initiatives.

Aiyedatiwa emphasized that the new university would serve as a model for the state’s agriculture and food security revolution. He also announced that a committee would be set up to determine the modalities for the transition.

Reassuring students and staff, the Governor stated that the conversion would not negatively impact their academic or professional interests.

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In addition to the upgrade, Aiyedatiwa approved a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the state government and a private investor for a ₦15 billion youth-oriented agriculture initiative.

Adeniyan stated, “The MoU was on an agreement for the establishment and operation of the Young Ranchers Agricultural Cluster Development Programme between the government and AgroMall Discovery and Extension Limited.

“The company will make use of five hectares of land in each of the three clusters in the state, using three higher institutions, including the newly upgraded RUGIPO, as host pilot beneficiaries.

“The initiative will focus on practical farming for young people and practical training for students in agriculture and agric-related operations.

“Aside from training the students, each of the three institutions to be used as hosts also stands to benefit a percentage from the proceeds of the operations.”