A delegation from the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Ondo Joint Campus Committee (JCC), led by its Chairman, Comrade Oluwarotimi Tobiloba Joshua (JOSH), paid a courtesy visit to the Governor of Ondo State, His Excellency, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, today. Due to the Governor’s official engagement in Abuja, the delegation was received by the Deputy Governor, His Excellency, Chief Olayide Owolabi Adelami.
The visit commenced with an introduction by the Chairman of NANS Ondo JCC, Comrade Oluwarotimi Tobiloba Joshua (JOSH). He articulated the purpose of the visit, expressing gratitude to the state administration for the recent payment of nine months’ salary arrears to the lecturers of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo. This payment was acknowledged as a critical step towards ensuring stability within the institution.
Following the expression of gratitude, the Chairman highlighted several key requests and concerns from the student community, which included:
1. Completion of Abandoned Projects: The Chairman urged the state government to prioritize the completion of various abandoned projects across all campuses to enhance the educational infrastructure.
2. Student Mobility: The NANS Ondo JCC Chairman, on behalf of the NANS Ondo JCC reminded the Deputy Governor of the state government’s pledge to provide transportation solutions for students, emphasizing the need for timely fulfillment.
3. Governor’s Presence at NANS Inauguration: An invitation was extended for the Governor to attend the NANS Ondo JCC inauguration ceremony scheduled for Thursday, 13th June 2024, to demonstrate the administration’s commitment to student affairs.
4. Employment Opportunities for Certified Leaders: The Chairman requested the provision of appointments and job opportunities for certified leaders of the association to support their transition into professional roles.
5. Security in Student Communities: The NANS Ondo JCC highlighted security issues within student communities and requested increased measures to ensure safety.
6. Polling Units on Campuses: Establishing polling units on campuses across the state was proposed to facilitate greater student participation in elections.
7. Subvention Grants for Students: The Chairman appealed for the provision of subvention grants to support the financial needs of Nigerian students.
In response, the Deputy Governor, His Excellency, Chief Olayide Owolabi Adelami expressed his appreciation for the visit and thanked the Chief of Staff to the Governor; Prince Segun Omojuwa, the Commissioner for Education; Mr. Laolu Akindolire, the Commissioner for Information and Orientation; Hon. Wale Akinlosotu and the student leaders for their attendance. He apologized on behalf of the Governor for his absence, explaining his engagement in Abuja.
His Excellency, Chief Olayide Owolabi Adelami assured the delegation that all the issues and requests raised would be communicated to the Governor for prompt attention. He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to collaborating with NANS and other student bodies to foster development in the state. The Deputy Governor emphasized the administration’s dedication to enhancing the educational sector and ensuring the welfare of students remains a priority.
The courtesy visit concluded with mutual expressions of goodwill and a commitment to ongoing dialogue and cooperation between the state government and the student community. Attendees included student leaders, Students’ Union Presidents, the NANS National Senate President; Comrade Akinteye Babatunde (Babtee), NANS Ondo JCC Executives, and representatives of Nigerian students in various institutions in Ondo State. The meeting was characterized by a shared resolve to work towards the betterment of the educational environment in Ondo State.
Peoplesmind