The Federal University of Technology, Ilaro, Ogun State, formerly the Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro, is progressing in its transition to a full-fledged university, with a target take-off date of 2027/28. The Acting Vice-Chancellor and Rector, Dr Mukail Aremu Akinde, disclosed this during a speech on his fourth anniversary in office. Akinde assumed office on September 27, 2022, and has overseen significant growth in the institution.
Under Akinde's leadership, the institution's student population has risen from fewer than 10,000 to more than 27,000, while its academic programmes have increased from 34 to over 100. The growth is part of the institution's transformation as it prepares to complete its transition from the former Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro, to the Federal University of Technology, Ilaro. This expansion has led to the creation of new schools, departments, and programmes.
The institution now has eight specialised schools, including the School of Agriculture and the School of Art, Design and Printing Technology. New departments have been established to support industrial development, such as Metallurgical Technology, Automotive, and Renewable Energy. These additions aim to provide students with relevant skills for the workforce and address industry needs.
Akinde attributed the institution's growth to strategic planning and collaboration with various stakeholders. Committees headed by a former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Prof Ramon Bello, and the Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics), Dr Charlotte Bose Iro-Idoro, have made progress on different aspects of the transition. The institution is preparing for National Universities Commission verification and working on an Academic Brief.
The institution has also recorded breakthroughs in research and innovation, including patents for a 3-in-1 electric tricycle and an Internet of Things-integrated solar egg incubator. Other innovations include an integrated mixer and extruder for mechanised kokoro production and a motorised digester for palm-oil extraction. These developments demonstrate the institution's commitment to research and entrepreneurship.
The institution has expanded its research activities, infrastructure, and academic staff strength, with at least 80 PhD holders and 371 new members of staff recruited. The Registrar, Mrs Aderonke Folasade Babatola, said the growth in student enrolment and academic programmes had increased the demand for manpower. The institution is seeking waivers to enable it to recruit more professors and is automating students' records and results.
Akinde attributed the achievements to the collective efforts of the governing council, principal officers, management, staff, students, and unions. The increase in student enrolment has generated economic benefits for the host community, with transport operators, food vendors, and traders benefiting from the larger population. The cordial relationship between the institution and the host community is attributed to the cooperation of the Olu of Ilaro and Paramount Ruler of Yewaland, Oba Kehinde Gbadewole Olugbenle.
Key points
- The Federal University of Technology, Ilaro, targets the 2027/28 academic session for take-off as a full-fledged university.
- The institution has experienced significant growth, with student population rising from fewer than 10,000 to over 27,000 and academic programmes increasing from 34 to over 100.
- The institution has made breakthroughs in research and innovation, including patents for a 3-in-1 electric tricycle and an Internet of Things-integrated solar egg incubator.
