Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to rewarding academic excellence by gifting ₦2 million each to the best graduating students of the Ogun State Institute of Technology (OGITECH), Igbesa, for the 2021/2022, 2022/2023, and 2023/2024 academic sessions.
The governor made this announcement during OGITECH’s 6th Combined Convocation Ceremony, where 9,320 students graduated.
Represented by his Deputy, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, Abiodun described the event as a defining moment in the graduates’ lives and a testament to the institution’s excellence.
“Our government recognizes that quality education and innovation are the bedrock of sustainable development. Institutions like OGITECH are pivotal in producing a skilled workforce that drives industrial and economic growth,” he said.
Abiodun further emphasized his administration’s unwavering support for technical and vocational education, stating, “The quality of education at OGITECH reinforces our belief that technical education is a catalyst for national progress”.
“Our ‘Building Our Future Together’ agenda is rooted in the understanding that education is the foundation of holistic development.”
Encouraging the graduates, the governor urged them to embrace adaptability, creativity, and continuous learning.
“The world is evolving rapidly with technological advancements. The knowledge and skills you have gained here will serve as the foundation for your future,” he added.
Delivering the convocation lecture titled Technological Education and the Realities of Nigerian Industrial Advancement, Prof. Ramon Adisa Bello highlighted the global shift towards Industry 5.0 and its impact on the job market.
“The ongoing industrial revolution is reshaping how we live and work, with remote operations becoming the norm. Nigeria must align its industrial development with the Industry 5.0 template to remain competitive,” he stated.
Bello stressed the need for human resource development, particularly in equipping Nigerian students with relevant technical skills.
“Institutions like OGITECH are well-positioned to drive Nigeria’s technical advancement, and I urge graduates to embrace change, remain innovative, and pursue excellence in their careers,” he added.
In his remarks, OGITECH’s Rector, Dr. Abiodun Oluseye, described the institution as a fast-growing citadel of technological education in Nigeria.
He disclosed that all courses offered at OGITECH are fully accredited by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE).
He further expressed appreciation to Governor Abiodun for appointing him as the institution’s third substantive Rector, assuring that OGITECH remains committed to equipping students with not just academic knowledge but also hands-on skills.
Similarly, the Acting Chairman of the Governing Council, Chief Kola Sorinola, praised the state government for its support, noting that the council has recorded significant achievements since assuming office.
He urged the graduates to uphold the values instilled in them, stating, “Your education at OGITECH is a stepping stone; use it wisely as you navigate the future.”
The overall best graduating student of the 2023/2024 session, Ismail Afeez Olamilekan, expressed gratitude to the institution for shaping their academic and personal development.
“This day marks both an end and a new beginning. We must remain optimistic, determined, and focused as we embark on the next phase of our lives,” he said.
Among the distinguished personalities honored with Honorary Fellowship Awards was the First Lady of Ogun State, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun.
Expressing appreciation for the recognition, she described OGITECH as a breeding ground for world-class innovators and changemakers.
“I am deeply honored to receive this recognition from an institution committed to excellence and innovation,” she said.
The convocation ceremony was attended by dignitaries, government officials, academicians, and industry leaders, reinforcing OGITECH’s reputation as a premier institution for technical education in Nigeria.
