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Independent Power Supply, My Greatest Achievement, Says TASUED VC, Oluwole Banjo …Thanks University Community For Supporting His Administration 

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The Vice Chancellor of Tai Solarin Federal University of Education, Ijagun, Ogun State, Professor Oluwole Banjo has said that the provision of independent power supply in the institution is his greatest achievement as Vice Chancellor.
Banjo, who was addressing the press on Monday having served five-year tenure as VC, also said that the university has had a stable academic calendar under his administration, which he said emphasised staff welfare.
Professor Banjo however, advised the incoming vice chancellor of the university to follow the path and blueprints that he said have been provided for the institution.
On the issue of falling standard of education in Nigeria, Professor Banjo said that it starts from home with the way parents handle their children.
He recalled that in the past, parents took education seriously and that the students too were more serious then.
He said; “These days, some parents are changing the orientation of students as they say that education is a scam.
“Also, the government is not doing the right thing. If teachers are not paid well, they will not perform. That is why some teachers are not dedicated as they do part time jobs to survive during school hours.”
Professor Banjo however, gave thanks to God “for the wisdom to serve for five years. I have a deep sense of appreciation to the members of the University for their support and constructive criticism of my administration.”
Reflecting on the Journey, Professor Banjo, who took over office on Thursday July 31, 2021 after eight months of acting, recalled that they shared both triumphs and trials, saying that they have achieved notable progress together.
On academic development, he stated that from the outset, his administration aimed to strengthen the academic programs, and that he was proud to say that the institution now offers a broader, more innovative curriculum than ever before, adding that they have successfully launched new programs, departments, and colleges, each designed to prepare students for a rapidly evolving job market.
“TASUED has continued to maintain its record of 100% accreditation for all programs run in the university. Fifteen (15) academic programs of the university, both B.Sc/B.A (Ed)/B.Ed and B.A/B.Sc, were due for accreditation by the National Universities Commission (NUC) this year.
“In fact the first and second sets of NUC accreditation teams that came for Computer Science, B.Sc(Ed), Library & Information Science, BLIS, Educational Management, B.Ed, Transport Planning & Management, B.Sc(Ed), Biology, B.Sc(Ed), AgriculChildhood Education, B.Ed, Educational Technology, B.Ed and Social Studies B.Sc (Ed) are through with their exercises.
“By the grace of God, we have hosted 30 inaugural lectures across various disciplines, contributing to the enrichment of knowledge within our university and beyond.
“Under my leadership, the university made significant strides in the development and enhancement of physical infrastructure aimed at supporting teaching, research, and overall campus life.
“Management remained committed to creating an enabling academic environment through the expansion of facilities and the rehabilitation of existing structures.
“Several capital projects were undertaken, including the construction and furnishing of lecture halls, laboratories, offices, and student support centers.
“Ongoing works on key buildings progressed steadily, reflecting our resolve to address the growing needs of our academic programs and increasing student population,” he said.
Professor Banjo emphasised that priority was also given to improving campus utilities such as power and internet connectivity, all of which he said are essential to modern academic engagement.
In addition to new developments, he said, management ensured the maintenance and upgrade of existing infrastructure.
The VC stressed that renovation efforts were carried out in some buildings to ensure safety and functionality.
He said that landscaping and environmental beautification projects were equally pursued to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the campus, contributing to a serene and inspiring learning atmosphere.
He then acknowledged the “support of TETFUND, “philanthropists, and institutional partners whose contributions facilitated some of these infrastructural advancements such as Installation of Independent Power Project (24/7 power supply) commissioned by Prince (Dr.) Dapo Abiodun, the Governor of Ogun State.”
He said that the project is being test-run, while also mentioning the completion of Science Laboratory Complex, completion of University Health Center extension, completion of Smart Classroom to aid technology education and completion of Postgraduate College Building, all commissioned by Governor Abiodun.
He also recalled the construction of 1000 sitting capacity multipurpose hall (TETfund) ongoing, completion of COVTED building at Ososa Campus, landscaping and beautification of the COVTED building at Ososa, completion of Home Management complex at Ososa, construction of new students’ toilets at Ososa campus through the University Foundation.Reconstruction of the main and the rare gates of the university.
“There was reconstruction of the fuel station, facilitating the construction of the staff club donated by the CEO of Ilaji Resort and Sport, Dr. Dotun Sanusi.
“There was facilitation of the construction of 30 rooms guest house by Barrister Dr. Taiwo Afolabi, CEO, Sifax Group of Company, construction of 30 lockup shops in preparation for moving Aluta Market to a new and befitting site.Renovation of 2006 ETF building (TETfund), purchase of two new generators for the campus and students hostels, procurement of new tractors through needs assessment fund, procurement of broiler processing plants (TETfund) to be delivered in July, procurement of two new 18-seaters Toyota bus (TETfund).
“We procured new Coaster Bus through Needs Assessment, perimeter fencing of the university, continuation of new CBT center project, movement of COVTED to Ososa, reactivation and renovation of students toilets at main campus, creation of Directorate of Counseling Services and Human Development, TASUED Housing Scheme for staff, floating of new programs, establishment of College of Agricultural and Hospitality Management,” he said.
He added that as one of the focal points of his administration, the university is constantly engaging her staff in capacity building by training and retraining the Non-Teaching and Teaching staff, employment of more security personnel and increment in their salary, while recalling the accelerated promotion of one of the Non-Teaching staff to encourage efficiency and effectiveness on the job.
He added that since he came on board, his administration has implemented far-reaching changes to align the University’s operations with global best practices to improve efficiency and service delivery.
Recognizing the Registry as the institution’s engine room, he said, the university management undertook a comprehensive reorganization exercise that has led to the following significant changes in Human Resource Management Division, Senate Affairs Division, Management Services and General Administration Division, Security Department Restructuring Pension Office. Repositioning of the Bursary Central Mailing System.
“Management, under my watch, remained steadfast in fostering an environment where the welfare of staff is prioritized, and industrial harmony is nurtured.
“Recognizing that a motivated workforce is central to institutional progress, deliberate steps were taken to enhance professional development, strengthen support systems, and maintain peaceful relations within the university community.
“To this end, opportunities for staff training, workshops, conferences, and capacity building programs were encouraged, enabling both academic and non-teaching staff to acquire new competencies and remain aligned with global best practices.
“University officially organizes training programs for all staff to improve staff capacity for enhanced performance, in spite of the lean resources available to the university.
“This administration equally approved and supported various Associations and groups in the university in organizing lectures and training for their members within and outside the university.The promotion of eligible staff members remains a top priority of this administration.
“Numerous deserving members of staff, both academic and non-teaching have been duly promoted, in line with our conviction that investing and motivating our people is fundamental to the success and sustainability of the University, even in the face of financial constraints,” he stated.
The VC noted that the university management has constantly provided the opportunity to upgrade and convert staff of the university to some specific administrative and teaching areas of needs in the university.There are no outstanding promotions.
He said that the 2025 promotion exercise for academic staff has been completed, while the promotion of those aspiring to the ranks of Associate Professor and Professor will be concluded before his exit from office for all candidates whose external assessment reports are positive.
“Similarly, the promotion exercise for non-teaching staff advancing to CONTISS 13 and 14 will also be completed before my tenure ends.
“This administration remains steadfast in ensuring fairness and merit in recognition and reward of excellence among staff.In addition, management maintained open communication with staff unions and took a proactive approach to dialogue and negotiation.
“This helped to avert disruptions and maintain industrial peace for which our university is known.
“We operated on mutual respect, justice, and the promotion of a collaborative environment in which all stakeholders contribute to the shared vision of institutional advancement.
“During my tenure, our university faced one of its most challenging financial periods. We had to implement two separate minimum wage policies with only limited subvention from the State Government.
“It was not an easy task. At some point, we had to rely on credit facilities from banks to meet our obligations.
“Yet, by God’s help, the resilience of management, and the collective understanding and patience of our staff, we were able to raise our Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) and stabilize the system.
“The beginning was indeed difficult. Salaries were owned for months, largely due to the devastating effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and the prolonged industrial action that followed.
“Those were trying moments for all of us. But through faith, perseverance, and shared sacrifice, we pulled through together,” he said.
Professor Banjo said that his administration has been able to defray ten (10) months of outstanding deductions owed by the university to staff cooperative societies, unions, and associations; liabilities inherited from previous administrations.
He added that staff salaries are now paid regularly, and often before the end of the month.
This achievement, he said, “stands as a testament to God’s faithfulness, prudent financial management, and our unwavering commitment to staff welfare and institutional peace.”
He said; “In like manner, student welfare received considerable attention through strengthened advisory systems, health and counseling services, etc. Management continued to engage student leadership constructively and address issues promptly.
“These achievements are not mine alone but the result of teamwork and shared commitment.
“The journey was not without its challenges, from financial constraints and infrastructure demands to the ever evolving realities of a dynamic educational system. Yet with courage, integrity, and a deep sense of responsibility, we confronted each obstacle as an opportunity for growth.
“Every challenge tested our resolve, but strengthened our unity and resilience. Every setback became a lesson, and every lesson inspired innovations and progress.
“Through it all, we have learned that leadership is not about the absence of difficulties but about the grace to navigate them with faith, wisdom, and perseverance.”
“My sincere appreciation also goes to the staff unions, associations, and all members of staff; academic, administrative, professional and technical, whose patience, understanding and commitment kept the University moving forward, even in difficult times.
“To our students (though they are not here), you remain the heart of this institution: your enthusiasm and pursuit of excellence continue to inspire hope for a brighter future.
“I also extend heartfelt appreciation to our alumni, who continue to be worthy ambassadors of this great university. Your achievements in various fields of endeavour bring pride and honour to our institution, and your continued support has strengthened the bridge between our past, present, and future.
“To our friends, partners, and the host community, I express profound gratitude for your cooperation and goodwill. Together, we have built a stronger, more resilient university, one that stands on the pillars of integrity, innovations, and service.
“As I prepare to take a bow, I do so with a deep sense of fulfillment and gratitude. We have labored faithfully, faced challenges with courage, and together written a chapter in the history of this university that I believe will stand the test of time.
“My earnest prayer is that the next administration will build on this solid foundation and take our university to even greater heights.May God continue to bless our university, bless all who work and learn here, bless our alumni wherever they are, and bless the noble mission that binds us all together,” he said.
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