By DAYO ADESULU
The National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS) has conferred an award of excellence on the Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Emeritus Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, recognizing his significant contributions to educational development in Nigeria. The award, titled “Icon of Educational Development in Nigeria”, underscores his unwavering commitment to transparency, technical education, and national development.
NAPS Leadership Pays Courtesy Visit to JAMB Headquarters
The leadership of NAPS visited the JAMB National Headquarters in Bwari, Abuja, on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, to present the prestigious award to Prof. Oloyede. During the visit, the students’ representatives expressed their gratitude and admiration for the Registrar’s remarkable impact on education.
Former NAPS President Commends Oloyede’s Leadership
The immediate past President of NAPS, Comrade Rilwan Opeyemi, acknowledged Prof. Oloyede’s developmental strides in education and extended an apology for the previous misunderstanding during an earlier visit. Opeyemi disclosed that the association had been misled by some Rectors, who falsely claimed that JAMB was hindering polytechnic graduates’ participation in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).
In his words, “We thank you for your guidance and direction. We recall that the last time we visited, there was a misunderstanding. We were pushed by some Rectors, who misinformed us that JAMB was the stumbling block preventing some of our members from participating in the NYSC. But the advice you gave us then has started yielding positive results. You are, indeed, a Godsend, and we are proud of you.”
Recognition of Transparency and Open-Door Policy
Opeyemi further praised Prof. Oloyede for his transparency and open-door policy, highlighting that his leadership has been marked by integrity and accountability since his tenure as the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin. He also lauded Oloyede’s initiatives, such as the JAMB Equal Opportunity Group (JEOG), which supports candidates with special needs.
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“Your open-door policy and transparency are well known. We have never heard anyone accuse you of corruption. Your developmental projects, particularly the establishment of JEOG, have transformed educational access for students with special needs. This award is a testament to your outstanding service delivery,” he added.
NAPS President Presents Award of Excellence
The current NAPS President, Eshiofune Paul Oghayan, officially presented the award of excellence to Prof. Oloyede in appreciation of his immense contributions to polytechnic and technical education in Nigeria.
Oghayan stated, “This award is given to individuals who have significantly impacted education in Nigeria. The last recipient was Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, when he served as the Vice President. Today, we honor Prof. Oloyede for his unwavering commitment to JAMB’s transformation and his relentless fight against corruption in tertiary education.”
NAPS Pledges Continued Support
Further appreciating the Registrar’s leadership, Oghayan reminisced about his first encounter with Prof. Oloyede, describing how his words helped clear misconceptions about JAMB’s role in polytechnic education. He pledged the association’s continued support for the Registrar’s policies and reforms.
“Sir, we will continue to work with you and support your leadership. Your policies have positively impacted technical education in Nigeria, and we stand firmly behind you,” Oghayan assured.
Prof. Oloyede Expresses Gratitude for the Award
In response, Prof. Oloyede expressed his appreciation for the award and the students’ recognition of his efforts. He encouraged them to remain committed to their studies and contribute to national development through technical education.
“I urge you to take education seriously, particularly technical education, which is essential for our nation’s economic and technological growth. If there are areas that require our attention, do not hesitate to reach out. We remain committed to supporting educational advancement in Nigeria.”
Distinguished NAPS Members in Attendance
The NAPS delegation at the event included:
- Danjuma Bulus Akolo – Senate President
- Confidence Godwin – Treasurer
- Sunday A. A. – Chairman, Stakeholders
- Bello Badrudeen – Speaker
- Ebhohimhen O. John – South-South Zonal Coordinator
- Ndukwe Wisdom Obinna – Senior Special Assistant, Special Duties
Conclusion
The recognition of Prof. Is-haq Oloyede by the National Association of Polytechnic Students is a testament to his impactful leadership in the education sector. His efforts in technical education reforms, transparency, and national development continue to resonate across Nigeria’s academic landscape.
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Dayo Adesulu, online editor, SEO expert.
