Federal Polytechnic Ilaro Launches Maiden Edition of Town and Gown Skill Acquisition Programme
The Federal Polytechnic Ilaro has made history with the launch of its maiden Town and Gown Skill Acquisition Programme, reaffirming its commitment to technical and vocational education. This initiative, organized by the institution’s Directorate of Town and Gown, represents a significant milestone as the Polytechnic directly engages its host community for the first time since its establishment in 1979.
The Rector of the Polytechnic, Dr. M.A. Akinde, emphasized the importance of the programme during his address. He described it as a corporate social responsibility initiative designed to empower the host community with wealth-creating skills and foster socio-economic development. “This programme allows us to give back to our community while preparing them for entrepreneurship and self-reliance. It will be an annual event, demonstrating our dedication to sustainable community engagement,” he announced.
Dr. (Mrs.) A.F. Osore, the Director of Town and Gown, in her remarks, appreciated His Royal Majesty, the Olu of Ilaro and Paramount Ruler of Yewaland, Oba Kehinde Gbadewole Olugbenle, Asade Agunloye IV for fostering a peaceful and hospitable environment that has enabled the Polytechnic to thrive. She added that the peaceful coexistence contributes massively to the stability of the Institution's academic Calendar. Dr. Osore futher added that to strengthen the bond between the town and the gown, more programmes are still in the pipe line
She appreciated the Rector and his team for making the proposal a fantastic reality putting smiles and fulfillment on the faces and hearts of the participants
Representing the Olu of Ilaro, and paramount ruler of Yewa land, Chief (Mrs.) Onifade Adunni, the Otun Iyaewe of Ilaro yewa expressed the monarch’s gratitude to the Polytechnic for its people-oriented initiatives. She described the programme as a significant moment where the academic world meets the practical needs of the community. “This gesture prepares participants to become entrepreneurs, offering the community an opportunity for socio-economic development. I urge all participants to pay close attention to the training,” she stated.
The event was graced by several dignitaries, including Chief (Mrs) Oluwayemisi Oloyo, Iya Ewe of Ilaro Yewa; Mr. Bankole, Personal Assistant to the Rector and Vice Chairman of the Orona Festival Central Planning Committee; Alhaji Haruna Aderonmu, Chairman of Clubs and Associations; Prince Lamidi Elegbede, Secretary to the Oronna Central Planning Committee; Mr. Seyi Gbangbayawu, Head of Department, Arts and Design; and Mr. Femi Afolabi, Acting General Manager of Poly TV.
The Federal Polytechnic Ilaro’s proactive engagement with its host community underscores its mission to create a bridge between academia and societal needs, setting a benchmark for other institutions in Nigeria. Participants expressed excitement and gratitude, committing to utilize the skills acquired to transform their lives and contribute to community development.
