I’m leaving EKSU better than I met it – Outgoing VC Olanipekun

The outgoing Vice Chancellor of Ekiti State University (EKSU), Ado-Ekiti, Prof. Edward Olanipekun, has stated that he is leaving the university in a much better condition than when he took office five years ago.

He further emphasized that the recent promotion of 70 academic staff to professors, 60 to associate professors, and several non-teaching staff members was not a farewell gesture but a recognition of their hard-earned achievements.

Olanipekun, who has served a single five-year term, will step down from his role as Vice Chancellor on Monday, August 19.

Olanipekun made these comments during a press conference held at the university campus in Ado-Ekiti on Tuesday, marking the beginning of events to commemorate the end of his tenure.

Olanipekun stated, “During the last convocation, I clearly mentioned in my address that I am leaving Ekiti State University in a far better state than it was on August 20, 2019. You will also recall that when the university’s Visitor, the Governor, addressed the gathering, he affirmed my statement, acknowledging that EKSU is indeed in a better place than I found it.

He mentioned that the university’s achievements over the last five years have been compiled into a comprehensive document, which is still being finalized. He urged the Head of the Directorate of Information and Corporate Affairs to ensure it is completed by the end of the week.

Addressing concerns about the recent promotions, Olanipekun clarified that the elevation of 70 staff members to professors, 60 to associate professors, including a deputy librarian and non-teaching staff, was not a farewell gift but rather a recognition of their merit. He explained that these promotions were based on at least two positive assessments from external evaluators, and the large number of promotions was due to a combination of pending cases and those eligible in the current review year.

He reiterated that these promotions were not given as a parting gesture but were conducted within the statutory periods of the Appointment and Promotion Committee meetings. He congratulated all those who were promoted.

Olanipekun also noted that there are still some reports pending, which he has decided to leave for the incoming Vice Chancellor to handle, hoping that they will announce further promotions during their first senate and promotion meeting.

On the topic of student loans, Olanipekun praised President Bola Tinubu for the initiative, describing it as a welcome development. He mentioned that EKSU students have been included in the program, and the university is currently verifying the details of those enrolled to ensure accuracy.

He expressed optimism that the student loan program will significantly benefit indigent students, many of whom are working various jobs, including menial ones, to support their education. With the introduction of the loan, Olanipekun believes these students will be relieved and able to focus more on their studies. He concluded by thanking President Tinubu for implementing this noble initiative.