In a significant move aimed at expanding academic opportunities and raising the bar in nursing education, the Oyo State College of Nursing Sciences, Eleyele, Ibadan, has concluded strategic arrangements to commence degree-awarding programmes in the near future.
This major development was revealed by the Provost of the College, Dr. Gbonjubola Owolabi, during a special event over the weekend that marked a reunion of alumni from the institution�s 1979�1982 graduating set, fondly referred to as Set X. The group, in a show of commitment and appreciation to their alma mater, donated a 110-inch interactive electronic board and a high-definition projector to enhance teaching and learning in the college.
According to Dr. Owolabi, the college is actively collaborating with the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) to secure an affiliation that will pave the way for the institution to award Bachelor�s and Master�s degrees in Nursing and related fields. This partnership is expected to offer students a seamless pathway to advanced education and career progression without the need to transfer to other universities.
�The aim is to give our students the opportunity to rise to the very top of their careers right from here in this college,� the Provost said. �We are proud of how far we�ve come, and we are excited about the journey ahead as we transition into a degree-awarding institution.�
The event was also marked by generous contributions from other alumni. Members of the 1985 graduating set donated an industrial borehole to the college to improve access to potable water for both students and staff. The borehole was officially commissioned by Mrs. Arinola, a former Director of Nursing Services, while the interactive board and projector were unveiled by Mrs. Obasa, a former Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health.
Dr. Owolabi expressed deep gratitude to the alumni for their unwavering support and generous gestures, noting that such contributions go a long way in improving infrastructure and sustaining the college�s legacy of academic excellence.
�The noble initiative of our former students is not only commendable, but it is also highly encouraging,� she said. �Their generosity will greatly contribute to the academic and technological advancement of our college and, by extension, to the healthcare delivery system in the state. We deeply appreciate their efforts and commitment.�
The Provost reaffirmed the institution�s commitment to maintaining its reputation as the premier nursing college in Nigeria, stressing that quality education, practical training, and skill development remain central to the college�s mission.
She also revealed that the college has already secured Federal Government approval to run academic faculties, and is currently undergoing full accreditation processes with the relevant regulatory bodies, including the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN). Once completed, these accreditations will allow the college to introduce a wider array of academic programmes that align with international best practices in nursing education.
In her closing remarks, Dr. Owolabi urged all alumni to continue playing an active role in the development of the college. �We are counting on our alumni community to keep the spirit of giving back alive. Your support helps us to do more, and to dream bigger,� she said.
Speaking earlier at the event, Dr. Yemisi Bhadmus-Ladi, Chairperson of the 1979�1982 Set, reflected on their time at the institution and the impact it has had on their lives.
�The School of Nursing, Eleyele�now the College of Nursing Sciences�was the stepping stone to our greatness,� she said. �It shaped our character, molded our professional path, and built the foundation upon which many of us have flourished in Nigeria and abroad.�
She also extended heartfelt thanks to all members of Set X who contributed to the successful execution of the donation project, emphasizing the importance of collective responsibility and gratitude.
As the Oyo State College of Nursing Sciences prepares to enter a new era of academic excellence and professional training, the support from its alumni continues to serve as a beacon of hope and a testament to the enduring bonds built within its walls.
