Kwara Universities Urged to Tackle Socio-Economic Issues

Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, the immediate past Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board and current chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Consortium of Universities in Kwara State (KU8+), called on universities in Kwara State to act as the “developmental brain box” for the state. This appeal was made during the opening ceremony of the fourth KU8+ Conference at Summit University, Offa, on Friday.

Oloyede emphasized that universities should extend their roles beyond teaching and degree awarding to actively contribute to policymaking and develop practical solutions for local socio-economic challenges. He urged institutions to leverage their expertise in agriculture to enhance productivity and food security, citing various agricultural research institutions in the state.

Additionally, he challenged universities to utilize research and innovation to revive moribund industries, mentioning Bacita Sugar Company, Jebba Paper Mill, and the Tobacco Company as examples of industries that have impacted the state's economy.