Osun Government Settles UNILESA Staff with ₦3 Billion, Converts 300 Workers to Permanent Status: A New Era for Higher Education in Ijesaland
In a landmark move that underscores its commitment to educational development and staff welfare, the Osun State Government has approved the payment of over ₦3 billion in outstanding allowances and the conversion of no fewer than 300 temporary staff members of the University of Ilesa (UNILESA) to permanent and pensionable status. This intervention, announced by the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Taiwo Olufemi Asaolu, during a press conference at the university’s premises in Ilesa on Wednesday, marks a pivotal moment in the institution’s journey toward stability and excellence.
Background: From College to University – A Rapid Transformation
Established in April 2023 following the upgrade of the former Osun State College of Education, Ilesa, UNILESA has undergone a remarkable transformation in just three years. Professor Asaolu described the condition inherited at inception as “deplorable,” characterized by dilapidated infrastructure, obsolete facilities, demoralized staff, and a student population of fewer than 1,000. “The situation posed serious challenges to our take-off, but today, we have a good story to tell,” he said.
The ₦3 billion settlement, approved by Governor Ademola Adeleke, has not only restored industrial peace but also significantly stabilized the institution’s operations. This financial intervention is a testament to the government’s recognition of the critical role that staff welfare plays in academic excellence. For context, the conversion of 300 temporary staff to permanent status means these employees now enjoy job security, pension benefits, and access to institutional loans—benefits that were previously out of reach. This move is expected to boost morale, reduce turnover, and attract top-tier talent to the university.
Academic Expansion: 97 Programmes and Counting
One of the most striking achievements of UNILESA is its rapid academic expansion. The university currently runs 97 academic programmes, all approved by the National Universities Commission (NUC). These span diverse disciplines, including Law, Nursing Science, Medical Laboratory Science, Physiotherapy, Optometry, Chinese Studies, and Special Education. Notably, 40 of these programmes have already secured full accreditation status—a remarkable feat for a young institution.
Professor Asaolu highlighted that the university has also received approval to commence the Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) programme, pending final clearance from the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN). “This positions us strategically in medical education and healthcare delivery,” he said. The addition of the MBBS programme is particularly significant for the Ijesa region, which has long sought a local institution to train medical professionals and address healthcare shortages.
Faculty of Technology and Land Recovery
As part of its expansion efforts, UNILESA has established a Faculty of Technology with programmes in Civil, Computer, Electrical, and Mechatronics Engineering. To house this faculty, the university reclaimed 15 acres of land previously occupied by housing units built by the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development. The institution acquired 24 units on the site, which will serve as the faculty’s base. This strategic land recovery not only provides much-needed space for engineering labs and workshops but also demonstrates the university’s proactive approach to infrastructure development.
Student Growth: From 1,000 to 15,000 in Three Years
Student enrolment has surged from fewer than 1,000 at inception to over 15,000 across degree, JUPEB, and pre-degree programmes. Professor Asaolu described this growth as a reflection of public confidence in the university’s academic offerings. For perspective, this 15-fold increase in just three years is unprecedented among Nigerian universities and speaks to the institution’s ability to meet the educational needs of the region.
To address manpower gaps and encourage enrollment in critical sectors, the university has introduced tuition-free education for students in the Faculties of Education and Agriculture. Additionally, children and wards of staff enjoy a 50% tuition discount. These initiatives are designed to produce graduates in fields that are essential for national development, such as teaching and farming, while also supporting staff families.
Healthcare and Community Impact: The Teaching Hospital
The university has also announced the establishment of the University of Ilesa Teaching Hospital, following the upgrade of the State General Hospital, Ilesa. This facility is being upgraded to support clinical training for medical students and improve healthcare delivery in Ijesaland and surrounding areas. The teaching hospital will serve as a hub for medical research, specialized treatments, and community health outreach, potentially reducing the need for residents to travel to larger cities for advanced care.
Infrastructure and Support: TETFUND, NELFUND, and Community Contributions
The university has received significant support from institutions such as TETFUND (Tertiary Education Trust Fund), NELFUND (Nigerian Education Loan Fund), corporate bodies, and notable individuals, including the Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, Clement Adesuyi Haastrup. These contributions have boosted infrastructure development, including the reconstruction of the university’s road network, which has improved accessibility and campus aesthetics.
UNILESA’s 18-hole golf course has also enhanced its national visibility, hosting major events such as the Professional Golfers’ Association’s 15th Qualifying School Seminar. This facility not only serves as a recreational asset but also positions the university as a venue for national and international sporting events, potentially attracting tourism and investment to the region.
Entrepreneurship and Skills Development
The institution has strengthened entrepreneurship training, equipping students with practical skills in areas such as fashion design, solar installation, agribusiness, and digital content creation. “These initiatives ensure our graduates are job creators, not just job seekers,” Professor Asaolu said. This focus on entrepreneurship is critical in a country where youth unemployment remains a pressing challenge. By integrating vocational training into the curriculum, UNILESA is preparing students for the realities of the modern economy.
Challenges and Future Plans
Despite the progress, the vice-chancellor identified key challenges, including inadequate hostel accommodation, unstable power supply, and the need for more lecture halls and laboratories. However, he assured that the university is addressing these issues as part of its long-term development plan. For instance, the university is exploring partnerships with private developers to build more hostels and is investing in solar energy to mitigate power outages.
Professor Asaolu reaffirmed the university’s commitment to academic excellence, infrastructure development, staff welfare, and community engagement. He expressed appreciation to the Governing Council, staff, students, donors, and the Ijesa community for their support. “As we consolidate these gains, we remain committed to building a world-class institution that will stand the test of time,” he said.
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