The Vice-Chancellor of Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology (OAUSTECH), Okitipupa, Prof. Temi Ologunorisa, has called on the Ondo State Government to tap into the vast potential of the Blue Economy by establishing a Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.
During the Ondo State House of Assembly Committee on Tertiary Institutions’ oversight visit to OAUSTECH on September 12, 2024, Prof. Ologunorisa emphasized the need for the state to harness its coastal resources to drive sustainable development.
He highlighted OAUSTECH’s role in promoting the Blue Economy through its academic programmes, including Petroleum and Gas Engineering, Chemical Engineering, and others, approved by the National Universities Commission (NUC) for the 2024/2025 academic session.
He maintained that by establishing a Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Ondo State would unlock its vast coastal resources, drive sustainable development, and create new economic opportunities for its citizens.
Prof. Ologunorisa urged the committee to appeal to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to ensure the speedy completion of the Maritime Academy at Ugbo Nla by OSOPADEC, a critical infrastructure for the Blue Economy.
He also requested the release of funds to complete abandoned projects, including the iconic School of Science Building and student hostels, to accommodate the increasing student population and promote the Blue Economy.
The Vice-Chancellor appreciated Governor Aiyedatiwa’s support for OAUSTECH and urged him to intervene in the completion of abandoned projects by NDDC and OSOPADEC.
Responding, the ODHA committee chairman, Hon. Chris Ayebusiwa, assured that decisive actions would be taken to complete the OSOPADEC and NDDC projects, while Hon. Messiah Oluwatoyin promised to urge Governor Aiyedatiwa to ensure OSOPADEC completes the Maritime Academy at Ugbo Nla.
