The Oyo State House of Assembly has advanced the proposed establishment of the Oyo State University of Agriculture and Technology, Igboora, as the enabling Bill passed its second reading on Tuesday.
The Bill, sponsored by the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Adebo Edward Ogundoyin, and the member representing Ibarapa Central/North State Constituency, Hon. Peter Ojedokun, seeks to provide the legal and institutional framework for the establishment of the university.
Tuesday’s plenary was presided over by the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Muhammad Abiodun Fadeyi, in the absence of the Speaker, who was away on an official engagement.
Leading the debate on the Bill, the lawmakers considered the need for an institution that would expand access to tertiary education while providing specialised opportunities in agriculture, science and technology.
The proposed university is expected to contribute to agricultural education and research, promote technological innovation and develop skilled manpower for Oyo State, particularly within Ibarapa and other parts of the state.
The establishment of the institution is also expected to strengthen the connection between tertiary education and the agricultural potential of the region, while providing opportunities for young people to acquire relevant academic and technical skills.
The Bill, which seeks to formally establish the university and provide for its administration and operations, will now undergo further legislative scrutiny before it returns to the floor of the House.
Following its passage through second reading, the Bill was referred to the House Committee on Education, Tertiary Institutions, Science and Technology.
The committee is expected to examine the provisions of the proposed legislation in detail, engage relevant stakeholders where necessary and make recommendations to the House.
Its report will form part of the consideration ahead of the Bill’s third reading and possible final passage.
The development represents another step in the state’s efforts to expand its tertiary education infrastructure and create institutions focused on agriculture, science and technology.
If eventually passed and assented to, the legislation will provide the statutory foundation for the establishment and operation of the proposed Oyo State University of Agriculture and Technology in Igboora.
