By Joshua Tosin Ogunsakin 
Ondo State is set to make a major leap in higher education as Governor Dr Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa on Monday received the committee report on the proposed elevation of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo, to a full-fledged university. The proposed institution, to be known as the University of Agriculture, Science and Technology, Owo (UNASTO), is expected to start with five faculties.
Governor Aiyedatiwa described the upgrade as a strategic move to position Ondo State at the forefront of national development in agriculture, science, and technology. He commended the committee for its thorough submissions, which included a campus master plan, an academic brief, a five-year income and sustainability framework, a take-off grant summary, and a pictorial master plan.
“This work reflects a clear vision and meticulous planning,” the governor said. “The calibre of experts involved and the research conducted leave no doubt that this university can become one of the best in Nigeria.”
Highlighting the national significance of the project, Aiyedatiwa noted its alignment with federal priorities in agriculture, rural development, electrification, and water provision. He added that artificial intelligence and technology would play key roles in boosting agricultural yields and supporting sustainable rural livelihoods.
The governor also emphasised the importance of managing the transition carefully to safeguard the academic progress of current polytechnic students. “We must prepare for a university capable of competing nationally,” he said, urging swift implementation.
Presenting the report, Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun, chairman of the committee and Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, said the upgrade responds to the growing aspirations of youth seeking university degrees beyond polytechnic diplomas. He described the proposed university as a distinctive institution designed to equip students with technical expertise and a strong academic foundation for a competitive global environment.
“The proposed name, University of Agriculture, Science and Technology, Owo, reflects our commitment to innovation, applied knowledge, and technological advancement,” Prof. Ajibefun said.
He outlined the planned faculties, which will include Agriculture and Natural Resources, Allied Health Sciences, Basic and Applied Sciences, Communication and Media Sciences, Computing and Digital Technology, Engineering Technology, Environmental Sciences, and Social and Management Sciences.
The committee, comprising academics and public servants, reviewed existing Rufus Giwa Polytechnic documents and studied data from universities in Nigeria and abroad to ensure strategic alignment with national and global priorities. A consultant town planner was engaged to develop a detailed master plan, covering educational, residential, recreational, public/semi-public, and commercial uses, in line with National Universities Commission requirements.
Prof. Ajibefun also presented a five-year strategic development plan aimed at ensuring financial stability, uninterrupted academic activities, and operational sustainability, recommending revenue streams alongside government support and an affordable tuition structure. A draft enabling law has been prepared and requires minor amendments for formal NUC recognition.
The event was attended by the Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami; Secretary to the State Government, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti; Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa; and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, Dr Akindele Ige.