• Ranked 18th in Nigeria
By Lateef Dada, Osogbo
Igbajo Polytechnic, Igbajo, Boluwaduro Local Government, Osun State, established in 2005, is Nigeria’s first community-based polytechnic. It launched its academic activities in 2008 and recently ranked of 18th among polytechnics by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE).
In 2015, the polytechnic mobilised students for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). This achievement inspired each community compound in Igbajo to seek a presence within the institution, fostering a commitment to education that encourages families to contribute infrastructure or scholarships.
Igbajo is known for its dedication to education, with many families having produced one or two professors. This legacy has created a competitive environment focused on maintaining academic excellence.
Community contributions
The leadership at Igbajo Polytechnic, including the Owa of Igbajo (the community’s monarch) and Chairman of the Governing Council, Adegboyega Awomolo SAN, has actively supported the institution.
All structures on the campus were donated by Igbajo’s sons and daughters, with many others providing scholarships to students annually. Prof. Olufiropo Awokola, Chairman, Governing Council, told Daily Sun: “Our institution is more than just a place of learning. It is a vibrant community where dreams are nurtured, talents are honed and futures are shaped.
“We will strengthen our academic programmes, ensuring they are not only relevant but also innovative. We must be proactive in aligning our curriculum with the needs of the modern workforce, fostering partnerships with industry leaders and stakeholders. Enhancing our infrastructure will be a priority.
“I am committed to promoting inclusivity and diversity within our institution. Every member of our community brings unique perspectives and experiences. We will create an environment that celebrates these differences, fostering collaboration and mutual respect.”
Recent developments
Dr. Abimbola Adebisi, the Rector, explained: “The Mass Communication Studio was built using community donations collected during the COVID-19 lockdown in 2021. After providing food to residents, the remaining funds were used to construct the studio, reflecting the community’s commitment to education.
“The on going construction of a laboratory complex, which has cost over N50 million, is also funded by local contributions. We have around 50 structures on campus, all donated by individuals.”
The polytechnic currently employs over 125 permanent staff members. It secured accreditation for 22 programmes from the NBTE for both National Diploma and Higher National Diploma courses. Approximately 1,500 students are enrolled, benefiting from facilities such as a glass-blowing workshop established with the supervision of Nigerian Institute of Science Laboratory Technology.
According to the Rector: “About 1,500 students are in the school enjoying uninterrupted academic session. We have a well-established, glass-blowing workshop. We invited the Nigerian Institute of Science Laboratory Technology to our institution. They came here and we partnered with them.
“We entered into MOU with them. So they are the people that came to establish the workshop. It is of international standard. We did that for two main reasons.
“The first reason is for the purpose of teaching our students.
“The second purpose that is in the MOU is that they will be bringing people especially in the South West for training here. These are some of the things that make our institution attractive to parents of admission seekers.”
Focus on discipline and security
Igbajo Polytechnic maintains a strong stance against indiscipline, with students exhibiting a cultured demeanour. The management enforces strict penalties for unruly behaviour. Adebisi said: “We have effectively managed indiscipline through various approaches, including partnerships with local security agencies.”
The institution collaborates with the police, civil defence corps and local security personnel, who are paid monthly. Additionally, there are security seminars for staff and students to enhance awareness and provide valuable training.
Community leaders also play crucial roles in ensuring student safety. Regular meetings are held between community chiefs and management to address security matters. The Rector: “Our handbook clearly outlines the rules and regulations governing student discipline. We have a dedicated intelligence team that keeps us informed.
“Then apart from that, we organise what we call ‘security seminar or workshop’ for both staff and students. The safe school initiative of the NSCDC also comes here to organise workshop for our staff and students. And they were all certified. Every participants collected certificate after the workshop. Apart from that, they were exposed to so many security tips. We enjoy relative peace in this community.”
Emphasis on entrepreneurship
Adebisi: “Entrepreneurship training is mandatory. Students must master at least one skill before graduation. Our goal is for every graduate to leave with a certificate in entrepreneurship, preparing them to become employers rather than job seekers.”