The Polytechnic Iresi witnessed a significant leadership change as three newly appointed principal officers officially assumed duty on Wednesday, October 2, 2024. Dr. Olakunle Adewoyin, the new Rector; Mr. Olakunle Ojo, the new Registrar; and the newly appointed Director of Works, Mr. Akinkunmi Olagunju, all began their tenure with a firm commitment to elevate the institution to new heights.
At the inaugural address held in the presence of the academic staff, non-teaching staff, and students of the Polytechnic, Dr. Adewoyin reaffirmed his vision for collective progress and development. He expressed gratitude to God for the opportunity to serve, emphasizing that the success of the institution rests on a shared commitment from all stakeholders.
“It is a privilege to be here, and we have every reason to thank God for sparing our lives. Moving this institution forward is a collective responsibility. While foundations have been laid by others, it is our duty to build on them—not with destruction but with progress and success. Let us put our hands together and work in unity for the good of this institution,” Dr. Adewoyin remarked.
The Rector, a seasoned academic with decades of experience in the university and polytechnic sectors, reminded staff and students of the importance of discipline, responsibility, and adherence to institutional guidelines. He underscored his administration’s dedication to upholding the values and standards of the Polytechnic Iresi, particularly in terms of staff welfare and students development.
“To the staff, I want to assure you that I will be a team leader who carries your concerns. I am committed to your welfare and will ensure that every genuine problem is addressed. However, I will not tolerate any form of indiscipline, lawlessness, or unholy practices such as sexual harassment or extortion,” he stated, setting a tone for the direction of his administration.
Dr. Adewoyin also addressed students, expressing satisfaction with their appearance and conduct. He urged them to maintain discipline, particularly regarding dress code, and emphasized the importance of wearing identification cards at all times. “Your ID card is your identity, and it is essential for us to know ourselves within the institution. As an institution, we must maintain a standard of decorum,” he stressed.
Drawing on his earlier promises made during a familiarization visit on September 19, 2024, the Rector reiterated his open-door policy and his commitment to involving all stakeholders in decision-making processes. He once again vowed to work closely with the Board of Trustees, the Governing Council, the broader stakeholders and the community to achieve the institution’s goals.
Mr. Olakunle Ojo, the new Registrar, also delivered a brief but inspiring address. He commended the students for their exemplary behavior and urged both staff and students to embrace their potential and take responsibility for their roles in the institution’s progress.
“We all have the potential to make an impact. Our challenge is discovering that potential and working hard to achieve it. Let us all embrace hard work and be responsible in our respective positions, ensuring that progress is made for the students and the institution as a whole,” Mr. Ojo stated.
The new Director of Works, Mr. Akinkunmi Olagunju who resumed alongside the Rector and Registrar, also expressed his enthusiasm for contributing to the growth of the Polytechnic Iresi. He promised to oversee the infrastructural development of the institution and ensure that the facilities are well-maintained and upgraded to meet modern standards.
The Polytechnic Iresi is now poised for a period of transformation, with high expectations from staff, students, and the community. The collaborative efforts of the newly appointed leadership team are expected to steer the institution toward greater achievements, with a focus on academic excellence, infrastructural development, and a commitment to ethical practices.
