•••I’ve no doubt in Prof. Gbore’s capacity, says Ondo Education Commissioner
The Vice-Chancellor of Sam Maris University (SMU), Supare-Akoko in Ondo State, Prof. Francis Gbore, has expressed optimism that the appointment of the new Commissioner for Education, Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun, will herald purposeful reform in the education sector of Ondo State.
The Don made the statement on Monday during a courtesy visit to congratulate Prof. Ajibefun in his office in Akure, the Ondo State capital for his well-deserved appointment.
Prof. Gbore, who served as Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) in the Administration of Prof. Ajibefun as Vice Chancellor at Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA) from 2015 to 2020, commended the acumen and visionary leadership of his erstwhile boss.
Gbore said, “On behalf of the Board of Trustees, chaired by Mr. Sam Ologunorisa, SAN, the Governing Council, Management, Staff, and Students of Sam Maris University, Supare-Akoko, I warmly congratulate you on your appointment as the Honourable Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology in Ondo State.
“Your appointment to this strategic portfolio is not only a testament to your long-standing record of academic excellence, administrative sagacity, and visionary leadership, but also a well-deserved recognition of your exemplary leadership, doggedness, and unwavering commitment to the advancement of education in our dear state and nation.”
Addressing some areas of concern on the administration of joint examinations conducted by the State, Prof. Gbore urged the Commissioner to address the issue of production of insufficient question papers for candidates sitting for joint examinations.
He also suggested that taking a cue from the development of Core Curriculum Minimum Academic Standard (CCMAS) by the National Universities Commission (NUC) for universities, the Ministry of Education under the watch of the Hon. Commissioner can tap into the wealth of knowledge and experience of Head Teachers and Principals to develop a list of recommended textbooks for primary and secondary schools since they all sit for joint examinations in the State.
On the representation of Ondo State at Competitions, Prof. Gbore observed that emergence of students from public schools is at the low ebb as students from private schools are now taking the lead.
He appealed to the Hon. Commissioner to look into the possibility of stepping up academic standard of students from public schools to change the narrative on representation at various Competitions aimed at showcasing academic excellence and development of a variety of skills.
In response, Prof. Ajibefun expressed appreciation to the Vice-Chancellor who was accompanied by the Registrar of the University, Mr. David Daramola for the courtesy visit.
He described the suggestions by the Don as “beautiful ideas”. He commended the Vice-Chancellor and pledged that the Ministry would consider the suggestions.
“During our time, we went to public schools. We participated in competitions and made good representations. We will look into it. I have confidence in your person and capacity. You are energetic, passionate and imbued with inspiration to nurture Sam Maris University to enviable heights,” Ajibefun concluded.
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