In a bold declaration that signals a new era for Ekiti State Polytechnic, Isan Ekiti, the newly appointed Rector, Dr Sunday Osinkolu Ajeigbe, has vowed to transform the institution into a hub for producing job creators rather than job seekers.
Speaking with journalists in Ado Ekiti shortly after receiving his appointment letter from the state government, Dr Ajeigbe attributed his new role to divine intervention, hard work, and dedication, the qualities he believes will drive his leadership.
Dr Ajeigbe outlined his ambitious vision to equip students with the relevant skills necessary to thrive in today’s rapidly evolving society.
“All our students, as they are graduating, would have been programmed and developed in a way that they wouldn’t be looking for jobs but employers of labour,” he asserted, underscoring his commitment to fostering a generation of self-sufficient graduates.
Addressing the longstanding issue of the dichotomy between university degree holders and polytechnic graduates, Dr Ajeigbe emphasized the efforts of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) to bridge this gap.
He noted that the board is working to ensure that polytechnic graduates, whether they hold OND or HND qualifications, are equipped with the skills necessary to outshine their university-educated peers.
“It is not just about having degrees or acquiring certificates but having the wherewithal to fit into the evolving society. Once you are developed and have the skill, even people who possess BSc degrees would be looking for you to engage your expertise,” he explained.
Dr Ajeigbe also acknowledged the challenge of funding within the polytechnic, stating that his administration would explore alternative means of generating revenue to ensure the institution’s smooth operation.
He also pledged to collaborate with all tiers of government to garner the support needed to realize the polytechnic’s vision.
As he prepares to take the helm, Dr Ajeigbe assured stakeholders that he would build on the progress already made by the institution’s management.
The EKSPOLY rector promised an inclusive administration that would involve everyone in the institution’s ongoing development, ensuring that the prosperity trajectories already mapped out would be fully actualized under his leadership.
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