By Yemi Akinsuyi
The Oyo State College of Nursing Sciences, Eleyele, Ibadan, has inaugurated four new Faculties designed to meet the growing demand for nursing education and actualise the collegiate status of the institution
The inauguration held on Tuesday, marked a significant step in nursing education at the institution, elevating former Departments of Nursing, Midwifery and Public Health within the College to standalone faculties of Medical Surgical; Maternal & Child Health; Public Health and Community Care, and Psychiatric and Mental Health.
The Provost of the College, Dr. Gbonjubola Owolabi, said this elevation, recognizes the college’s long-standing contributions to nursing education and the growing demand for its programs.
She asserted that the new framework in the college marks a significant milestone for the institution and the nursing profession in Nigeria.
Dr. Owolabi, therefore, urged the new deans of faculties to work assiduously towards the attainment of world-class products from the college.
She appreciated the Heads of Departments, who are now Deans of faculty, for their effectiveness and commitment to the progress of the college.
While commending the Governor Seyi Makinde-led administration, the Provost said the institution had initiated steps to commence degree programmes in collaboration with the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso
She challenged the deans of faculties to foster nursing education, stressing that the different courses offered must be a tool for advancing the healthcare profession.
She added, “This development is expected to foster growth and expansion of the nursing program in the College, benefiting both the college and the broader healthcare sector in Nigeria and globally.”
The Pro-Chancellor, LAUTECH, Prof. Ayodeji Omole, in his keynote address, described the inauguration as a historic and groundbreaking development.
He praised the Oyo State College of Nursing’s bold step to infuse new faculties and departments into its academic system.
He explained that the College’s bold restructuring filled a long-standing gap in Nigeria’s nursing education, particularly among Colleges of Nursing in the country.
“With this inauguration of new faculties, the College will witness a turning point in nursing education and practice,” he said.
Commending the Provost for her doggedness, he said Dr. Owolabi has redefined resilience as an administrator.
He reaffirmed LAUTECH’s commitment to supporting the college’s dream to award degree programmes so as to align with global standards and best professional practices.
