The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP), Oyo State College of Agriculture and Technology (OYSCATECH), Igboora Chapter, has officially concluded its activities for the 2025 academic year with a comprehensive End-of-Year Special Event. Held over two days at the institution's 800-seater hall, the celebration brought together academic staff, management led by Rector Prof. Akinola Kehinde Akinlabi, and members of the Governing Council. The event served not only as a festive gathering but also as a critical platform to review the union’s progress, honor distinguished service, and reinforce the spirit of camaraderie among the workforce.
The festivities commenced on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, with a focus on physical wellness, a crucial aspect of staff welfare often overlooked in academic settings. A wellness walk around the campus was organized to promote fitness, followed by a spirited novelty football match between the host chapter and their counterparts from the Adeseun Ogundoyin Polytechnic, Eruwa (AOPE). The friendly competition, which saw OYSCATECH emerge victorious, underscored the collaborative relationship between the sister institutions. Dr. (Mrs) Olubukola Deborah Adelakun, Chairperson of the organizing committee, praised the AOPE delegation for their participation, noting that such interactions strengthen the broader academic community in the region.
On the second day, the focus shifted to health awareness and intellectual discourse. A general health screening was conducted for all academic staff, ensuring that members are physically prepared for the demands of the upcoming year. This was complemented by a lecture titled “We Are What We Eat,” delivered by Dietitian (Mrs) Ojo Oluwabunmi Vivian from the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan. The lecture provided vital insights into nutritional habits necessary for maintaining long-term health, reflecting the union's holistic approach to member welfare.
A central feature of the celebration was the recognition of retired academic staff who have dedicated their careers to the development of the college. In a gesture described as unprecedented by former Deputy Rector Dr. Ariyo Olusanjo Okunlola, the union honored these veterans for their selfless service. Dr. Okunlola, speaking on behalf of the retirees, lauded the current executive council for establishing a culture of appreciation that bridges the gap between serving and retired members. This initiative is seen as a significant morale booster, assuring active staff that their contributions will be valued even after they exit the service.
The union also conferred prestigious awards on individuals who have contributed significantly to the institution and society at large. The "ASUP Ambassador Award" was presented to Comrade (Dr.) Babatunde Afeez Adeniyi, the current Chairman of the Oyo State Independent Electoral Commission (OYSIEC) and a former ASUP Chapter Chairman. His recognition highlights the leadership pipeline within the union that produces public servants capable of handling state-level responsibilities. Additionally, High Chief Adegboyega Taofeek Adegoke (FCA), the Chairman of the occasion, received a Special Recognition Award for his societal contributions.
In his state-of-the-union address, the ASUP Chapter Chairman, Comrade Tiamiyu Mumini Bamidele, outlined a series of milestones achieved by his administration. He reported significant progress in staff welfare, including the successful negotiation and payment of salary arrears, tax reductions, and the retention of academic allowances. These financial wins have been pivotal in stabilizing the academic environment at OYSCATECH, allowing lecturers to focus on their primary duties of teaching and research without the distraction of industrial disputes.
Comrade Tiamiyu also highlighted structural advancements, such as the union's intervention in programme accreditation processes and the constitution of the Governing Council. The administration has also successfully hosted the maiden ASUP OYSCATECH colloquium and international conference, signaling a renewed focus on academic rigor and global engagement. Other achievements listed include the establishment of the ASUP Endwell Scheme, renovation of the union secretariat, and the digitalization of the chapter’s operations through a new official website.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by the General Secretary, Comrade Akanji Kayode Ayanwusi, who reiterated the executive's resolve to protect member interests in the coming year. As the 2025 academic year draws to a close, the OYSCATECH ASUP chapter appears to have consolidated its internal unity and established a solid foundation for future engagements with the management and the state government. The celebration stands as a testament to the resilience of the academic staff and their commitment to the growth of the institution.
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