OSPOLY Rector Celebrates 26,995 Graduates, Urges Them to Uphold Excellence

 

By: Ridwan Afolabi

The Rector of Osun State Polytechnic Mr Kehinde Alabi charged 26,995 graduating students to be proud ambassadors of the institution, reminding them that their achievements and conduct must reflect the ideals of hard work, innovation, and excellence that define the polytechnic.

He made this call today, March 26, 2026, in his speech at the school’s 8th Convocation Program, which took place at the institution’s pavilion.

In his speech, Mr. Alabi described the 8th Convocation Programme his first since he assumed office as a defining tradition in academic life. He emphasized that it symbolizes years of dedication, hard work, and perseverance by the students, and serves as a celebration of their remarkable achievements. He urged the graduates to reaffirm their commitment to continually uphold and strengthen the institution as a centre of excellence in technical and entrepreneurial education.

According to him, "A total of 11,201 students bagged Higher National Diploma certificates, 15,727 earned National Diploma certificates, while 67 received National Certificate of Education, making a total of 26,995 graduates who have successfully fulfilled the academic and professional requirements of the institution. Eighty-four of the graduates obtained distinctions at the HND level, while 78 students graduated with distinctions at the ND level. On behalf of the Governing Council, management, and staff of the polytechnic, I warmly congratulate each and every one of our graduates on reaching this remarkable milestone".the Rector Stated.

 

Furthermore, he noted that since the last convocation ceremony four years ago, the polytechnic has recorded notable achievements in academic development, infrastructure, research, and institutional advancement. With the continued support of His Excellency, Ademola Adeleke, the Executive Governor of Osun State, the institution has witnessed several infrastructural improvements, including the tarring of roads leading to the campus, which has significantly enhanced accessibility for students, staff, and visitors. He also expressed gratitude to the Governor for the regular payment of salaries and allowances, the clearance of salary arrears, and the provision of accreditation grants that have strengthened the quality and sustainability of academic programmes.

The Rector further explained that the institution has expanded its academic offerings to 69 fully accredited programmes, introduced degree programmes in affiliation with the University of Ilorin, and celebrated 20 staff members who successfully completed their doctoral programmes both within and outside the country. He added that the institution secured a National Research Fund (NRF) grant of ₦28 million, making it the only polytechnic in the Southwest to achieve this feat. Additionally, the introduction of solar energy systems in major offices and laboratories, some of which were produced by students demonstrates the innovation and practical skills promoted by polytechnic education. These achievements have earned the institution national recognition, ranking it 6th in the country.

Mr. Alabi appealed to the state government to assist in producing machines such as cassava peeling machines, defeathering machines, cashew nut extractors, rice milling machines, garri fryer machines, feed milling machines, hammer milling machines, dehydrators, multi-functional food processing machines, and soundproof cassava and yam milling machines. He noted that the institution has successfully fabricated these equipment and is ready for commercialization.

In addition, he specially acknowledged the parents and guardians of all graduating students, recognizing their sacrifices, encouragement, and unwavering support as crucial to the success of the graduates. He also expressed appreciation to royal fathers, chiefs, and host communities. Finally, he appealed to industries, companies, and institutions to partner with the polytechnic in its desire to improve technical and innovative education in Nigeria.