- By Demola Atobaba, Ado-Ekiti
Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has commended the people of Okemesi-Ekiti in Ekiti West Local Government Areas of the state over the successful inauguration of Hillside University of Science and Technology (HUST) in the town.
Governor Oyebanji in a message delivered during the inauguration of the Hillside University of Science and Technology in Okemesi-Ekiti on Tuesday described the establishment of the private university as a landmark achievement not only in Ekiti, Nigeria and Africa but the whole world.
The governor who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Habibat Adubiaro remarked further that the university with its enriched academic and professional integrated undergraduate and postgraduate STEAM curriculum in science, security, Technology and Engineering, Education and vocational, Agribusiness and Environment, Medicine and management disciplines will help to arrest and reverse the mass exodus of direly needed skilled Healthcare and technology professionals.
The Governor also disclosed at the inauguration of the private varsity that his administration has recorded feat in the Public-Private-Partnership (PPP) arena Memorandum Of Understanding (MOU) signed by the state government of Ekiti state for ten General and Specialist Hospitals under the jurisdiction of Ekiti state Management Board with a total capacity of 762 beds to collaborate with tristate College of Health and Medical sciences of the University, for the clinical training of doctors, dentists, nurses, pharmacists and other allied heath professionals.
“Today goes down as a landmark achievement not only in Ekiti state, Nigeria and Africa but the world as a whole, taking into cognizance the undisputed role of Ekiti State as the historical brain-box, Central Bank of knowledge in Nigeria and the distinction diaspora Nigerians have attained by their intellectual and professional contributions to international commerce, the healthcare industry and other critical spheres of global economy in the past fifty years. It is not now, nor could it ever have been a happenstance but divine providence, that Hillside University Science and Technology highly
enriched academic and professional integrated undergraduate and postgraduate STEAM curriculum in science and security, Technology/Engineering, Education and vocational, Agribusiness/Environment and Medicine/management disciplines, gifted to Nigeria in its hour or critical JAPA need, to arrest and reverse the mass exodus of direly needed skilled healthcare and technology professionals.
“True to its mandate and social contract fulfillment with the Ekiti State people, this Administration has belled the cat in the Public-Private-Partnership arena by approving a Memorandum Of Understanding (MOU) signed by the Government of Ekiti State, for ten General and Specialist Hospitals under the jurisdiction of Ekiti Hospitals Management Board with a total capacity of 762 beds, to collaborate with the Tristate College of Health and Medical sciences of the University, for the clinical training of doctors, dentists, nurses and pharmacists and other allied professionals”.
Governor Oyebanji congratulated the Chancellor of the University, Mr Joseph Olaoye Jaiyeola for deeming it fit to erect such a gigantic structure in Ekiti.
“We therefore congratulate the Founder of the University, Mr Joseph Olaoye Jaiyeola whose relentless efforts and irrevocable commitment to excellence in a lifelong corporate career has brought back home, a long desired and cherished Golden fleece”.
In his welcome address, the traditional ruler of the host community, HRM Oba Michael Gbadebo Adedeji, JP, CON, Ariyowonye II, Owa-Ooye of Okemesiland, appreciate all and sundries for their supports for the town during his reign.
Oba Adedeji who highlighted the needs of the community, appealed to Governor Oyebanji to remember the town in his developmental agenda by using his good office to develop the ancient town.
“May I use this opportunity to remind His Excellency that the issue of electricity supply to Okemesi needs to be revisited. Okemesi has not been so fortunate in the provision of electricity supply. It has always been at zero-availability in the community. This has been seriously affecting professionals like welders, electricians, tailors, millers, barbers etc making business with electricity. Even Kabiesi has no option than to battle with his solar-power supply which may not function when the sun does not shine. The first class Oba still lives in a third class Palace”.
The first-class monarch added that, “Okemesi needs Ekiti State presence in terms of what are available in other communities. For instance, the General Hospital here is better called a General Clinic where almost every necessary facility is absent. There is no light. There is no access road to the hospital. It is of recent that a son of Okemesi provided an ambulance to replace the grounded ones. The government should please help and intervene. While, we can commend the government on her efforts on security, I will request that the police station here be fully upgraded to a Divisional Police Station with a DPO. We lost the only first Branch Bank here years back because the policemen here did not have single gun to confront the armed robbers who were armed with sophisticated rifles. Our men held koboko and kondo olopa to confront handlers of AK 47 rifle. We want Ekiti government to come to our aid and rescue this town”.
Speaking in an interview with journalists, the national president; Federation of Okemesi Improvement Union (FIOU); Engr. Nathaniel Olaoye congratulated all sons and daughters of the community over the establishment of the new University. He described the milestone as not just a triumph for education, but also a harbinger of numerous opportunities that will catalyze economic growth and development in Okemesi.
According to him, “As we revel in this achievement, I urge everyone to join in prayers for the continued success and prosperity of the university. Its presence among us promises to be a wellspring of opportunities, both educational and economic. The establishment of Hillside University is set to stimulate a variety of business prospects”.
“There’s no doubt that there will be an increased demand for everyday commodities and services. Setting up retail shops for books, stationery, technology gadgets, and clothing could prove to be lucrative. The influx of students and staff will create a need for eateries, cafes, and food delivery services. This sector offers immense potential for growth and innovation in our dear community.
“The demand for student housing and lodgings will rise. Investing in hostels, rental apartments, or home-stay services could yield substantial returns. In terms of transport services, with more people coming into Okemesi, the need for efficient transport services; be it car hire, bike rentals, or shuttle services will increase. Opportunities for private tutoring, coaching classes, and skill development workshops will emerge to support the academic needs of students.
He said, “As we stand at the cusp of these unfolding opportunities, I encourage every citizen to envision and position themselves strategically to tap into these prospects. Let us embrace this era of growth with innovation, entrepreneurship, and a communal spirit.
“Together, we can ensure that the impact of Hillside University transcends the realms of academia and becomes a catalyst for economic and social transformation in Okemesi”, he explained.
In his remarks, the Chancellor of the University who could not hold his joy, Mr Laoye Jaiyeola, expressed his deep gratitude to God for a successful inauguration of the new Institution and support received from Governor Oyebanji and the people of Ekiti State. He emphasized the university’s commitment to upholding the highest standards of academic excellence, research, and community engagement. Mr. Jaiyeola also outlined the institution’s plans for more infrastructure development, faculty recruitment, and curriculum design, showcasing their dedication to providing a world-class educational experience.
According to him, the establishment of Hillside University of Science and Technology, Okemesi-Ekiti, signifies a significant milestone in the educational landscape of Ekiti State. With the governor’s unwavering support and the university’s visionary leadership, the institution is poised to become a prestigious center for learning, research, and innovation.
There’s no doubt that expectations soar high, as it is anticipated to unlock a new era of educational advancement and contribute substantially to the socio-economic growth of Ekiti State.
It would be recalled that about six months ago, NUC licensed some new private universities across the country in which the Hillside University of Science and Technology Okemesi-Ekiti was included on the approved list.
It is a welcome and commendable development in okemesi and it’s environs.
May God bless those who had the vision.