An assessment team from the Federal Ministry of Education and the National Universities Commission has outlined key facilities needed to ensure the smooth take-off of the newly established Federal University of Technology and Environmental Sciences, Iyin-Ekiti.

President Bola Tinubu had in February signed the bill establishing the university into law, with its management setting September for the commencement of admissions.

During an inspection visit on Monday, the assessment team listed additional needs for the take-off phase, including a well-equipped library, official vehicles for four principal officers, 10 directors, the Pro-Chancellor, and four deans.

Other identified necessities include four additional coaster buses, Hilux vehicles for security personnel, other utility vehicles, and 25 laptops for principal officers and heads of units.

Leader of the delegation, Mrs Rakiya Gambo-Ilyasu, who spoke in Iyin-Ekiti, said the team also found that some key facilities were already in place at both the temporary and permanent sites of the institution. These include an ICT building, central laboratory, chemistry and physics laboratories, classrooms, clinic, library, boreholes, hostels, and a 500-seater auditorium.

She noted that ongoing projects include more classrooms, religious centres, eateries, staff quarters, and security posts.

While expressing satisfaction with the infrastructural development already achieved—despite the university yet to access its official take-off grant—Gambo-Ilyasu said, “We are impressed with the facilities on the ground. It is clear that the community is serious about the success of this university, as demonstrated by their willingness to donate land and infrastructure.”

She expressed optimism that the university would meet global standards and push for a new direction in Nigerian university education.

According to her, “Nigerian universities should play key roles in job creation, innovation, and technological advancement,” urging FUTES to shift from the traditional theory-based model to one with tangible societal impact.

She also stressed the need for visionary leadership at the institution, the recruitment of passionate and competent personnel, and the integration of modern technologies, including Artificial Intelligence.

Vice-Chancellor of FUTES, Prof. Gbenga Aribisala, who presented the university’s physical master plan and Phase One development prototype, reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to building a modern, future-ready university.

“FUTES is determined to build a 21st-century university. We plan to convert waste to wealth by generating electricity for our use and eventually for the host community,” he said.

He noted that many of the proposed projects are capital-intensive and appealed for partnerships with individuals and organisations to support the development of key infrastructure, especially the administrative building.

Aribisala also assured that appointments into the institution would be based strictly on merit.

“Computer literacy will be a key requirement, as we aim to recruit only the best,” he added.

In his remarks, the Oluyin of Iyin-Ekiti, Oba Adeola Ajakaye, commended the Federal Government and President Tinubu for siting the university in the town, pledging the community’s full support.

“We are ready to assist wherever it is needed. Iyin-Ekiti is united and committed to the meaningful development of this university,” the monarch said.