*JUST IN: Bill to Upgrade OYSCATECH, Igboora to University Passes First Reading*

The Oyo State House of Assembly has commenced the legislative process for the proposed upgrade of the Oyo State College of Agriculture and Technology (OYSCATECH), Igboora, into a full-fledged university.

The Bill, titled “A Bill for a Law to Make Provision for the Establishment, Constitution and Functions of the Oyo State University of Agriculture and Technology, Igboora and for Matters Connected Therewith,” scaled first reading at the plenary of the House on Thursday.

The Bill was co-sponsored by the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, representing Ibarapa East State Constituency, Hon. Peter Ojedokun, representing Ibarapa Central/North State Constituency, and the Leader of the House, Hon. Sanjo Adedoyin.

The proposed legislation is designed to provide the legal and institutional framework for the establishment of the Oyo State University of Agriculture and Technology, Igboora.

It is expected to define the constitution, administration, powers, functions and responsibilities of the proposed university.

The initiative will transform OYSCATECH from its existing status as a college of agriculture and technology into a university, thereby creating opportunities for the institution to offer degree programmes and undertake higher-level teaching, research, innovation and other academic activities.

Located in Igboora, OYSCATECH has historically served as a state-owned tertiary institution with a focus on agriculture, technology and technical manpower development.

Its evolution into a university would represent a significant expansion of its academic mandate and institutional capacity.

The Speaker, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin said the first reading of the Bill marks the initial stage of the legislative process

“The move is particularly significant for Ibarapa, where agriculture remains a major component of our local economy, as the proposed institution would serve as a centre for agricultural education, research, technological innovation and skills development tailored to the needs of the region and the state at large.

“The proposed university is also expected to strengthen the state’s human-capital development in agriculture and technology, while providing increased access to higher education for young people within Ibarapa, Oyo State and beyond.” Oyo Speaker said