Yekini Jimoh in Lokoja
After eight years of meritorious service as the Provost, Federal College of Education, Okene, Kogi State, Dr. Iyela Ajayi has bowed out.
Addressing journalists in his office recently, Ajayi said he was able to make positive changes in the history of the college through the enthronement of transparency, accountability and open door policy in the day-to-day affairs of the college.
Ajayi, who thanked the host community, staff and students of the institution for their support and corporation, said apart from introducing five new courses and massive infrastructural development, he raised the bar as the institution can boast of more than sixty doctorate degree holders.
He added that his track record in human development prompted the last accreditation team to suggest upgrading of the college to university status.
The former provost added that during his tenure, the college attained full accreditation status in all NCE courses with the introduction of degree programme which has so far produced three sets of graduates with impressive results, as well as gaining full accreditation for all the degree courses.
“My greatest joy is that I am leaving a peaceful academic environment for my successor. Before assuming the position of provost, this college was enmeshed in incessant staff crises and students’ unrest. I appeal to everyone to support the incoming provost whose appointment will soon be announced to maintain the legacy of my administration.
“The college has been enjoying absolute peace throughout my tenure of eight years. This is one of my major legacy that needs to be sustained to enable the institution maintain its status as one of the leading colleges of education in the country.
“Infrastructure development within this eight years was unprecedented and the structure and other facilities we have put in place qualify the institution to be a full fledge university.”
While identifying paucity of funds, salary shortfall, unpaid staff allowances and non-payment of outsourced services as some of his challenges while in office, Ajayi revealed that he was able to avert several industrial actions as a result of his open mindedness with staff members.
