YABATECH Council Chairman Calls for Stronger Ties Between Universities and Traditional Institutions
By DAYO ADESULU
The Chairman of the Governing Council of , Prof. Funso Afolabi, has advocated a national framework that promotes stronger collaboration among tertiary institutions, traditional rulers, and local communities to drive sustainable development, innovation, and youth empowerment across Nigeria.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by the Oluyin of Iyin-Ekiti, , to the institution, Afolabi emphasized that Nigeria’s development goals would be achieved more effectively when educational institutions and traditional authorities work together to address societal challenges.
According to him, traditional rulers have evolved beyond ceremonial responsibilities and now play significant roles in education, security, economic growth, and community development.
He pointed to the progress recorded in Iyin-Ekiti under the leadership of the monarch, particularly the establishment of the , as evidence of the impact communities can have in advancing educational development.
Afolabi stressed that meaningful partnerships between higher institutions, traditional institutions, and host communities create opportunities for innovation, human capital development, and inclusive economic growth.
He noted that educational advancement cannot be separated from community participation, adding that institutions thrive when they enjoy strong local support and stakeholder engagement.
Drawing lessons from the successful take-off of the university in Iyin-Ekiti, the YABATECH Council Chairman observed that community ownership remains a key factor in ensuring the sustainability of tertiary institutions.
He explained that many newly established institutions struggle with enrollment and acceptance because of weak community engagement, stressing that visionary leadership and stakeholder involvement are critical to institutional success.
Afolabi also called for greater investment in technical and vocational education as a solution to youth unemployment, poverty, and the growing skills gap in the country.
He stated that institutions such as YABATECH have a vital role to play in supporting Nigeria’s economic diversification efforts through entrepreneurship training, workforce development, and technological innovation.
The Council Chairman further identified tourism, hospitality management, environmental sustainability, digital innovation, and security technology as areas where partnerships between educational institutions and communities could generate significant socio-economic benefits.
On security, he advocated closer collaboration among academic institutions, government agencies, and traditional leadership structures to develop indigenous technological solutions capable of tackling emerging security threats.
According to him, Nigerian tertiary institutions possess the research capacity and intellectual resources needed to create innovative security systems and community-based solutions that can strengthen national security.
He also emphasized the continued relevance of traditional institutions in modern governance, describing royal fathers as indispensable partners in policy implementation, grassroots mobilization, and community development.
Responding, Oba Ajakaiye expressed appreciation for the warm reception extended to him and his delegation, noting that the visit was designed to foster practical partnerships rather than serve as a ceremonial engagement.
The monarch disclosed that Iyin-Ekiti Kingdom is developing a comprehensive security framework aimed at addressing emerging threats and promoting safer communities.
He expressed confidence that YABATECH’s expertise in technology and innovation could contribute significantly to the development of home-grown security solutions with national relevance.
Oba Ajakaiye also highlighted the importance of networking, cultural exchange, and institutional collaboration as critical drivers of national development.
He commended YABATECH for its commitment to community engagement and recalled the institution’s participation in the kingdom’s 2025 celebrations as a memorable milestone.
The royal father reaffirmed the kingdom’s commitment to sustaining its partnership with YABATECH on initiatives that promote education, innovation, youth development, and sustainable growth.
Earlier, the Rector of YABATECH, , described the visit as a continuation of discussions initiated during the monarch’s coronation anniversary celebrations in 2025.
He reiterated the institution’s commitment to empowering young Nigerians through entrepreneurship and skills acquisition programmes aligned with the Federal Government’s development agenda.
The Rector disclosed that YABATECH is already exploring several collaborative projects with communities and institutions nationwide, including partnerships with the Federal University of Technology and Environmental Sciences in Iyin-Ekiti.
Abdul praised the Oluyin’s visionary leadership, particularly his role in facilitating the establishment and growth of the university, and described the monarch’s approach to development as a model worthy of emulation.
According to him, the monarch’s willingness to personally engage educational institutions demonstrates a unique leadership style that prioritizes collaboration, innovation, and sustainable development.This version is structured like a mainstream newspaper report and presents the story from a broader national development perspective.
