The Oyo State Government has expressed its readiness to strengthen collaboration with relevant stakeholders and professional bodies to promote preventive counselling and other interventions aimed at curbing drug abuse, delinquent behaviours and other social vices among young people in the State.

The Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Hon. Olusegun Olayiwola, stated this when he received members of the Counselling Practitioners’ Council of Nigeria (CPCN) in his office, emphasising the importance of preventive counselling in schools as a strategic measure for safeguarding the future of school-age children.

Hon. Olayiwola noted that the State Government would welcome initiatives capable of positively impacting the lives of young people, particularly those designed to prevent students from engaging in behaviours that could jeopardise their education, wellbeing and future prospects.

He disclosed that efforts would be made to fast-track the establishment of a dedicated Counselling Department within the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, elevating it from its current status as a unit under a department.

The Commissioner also expressed the Ministry’s readiness to pursue the domestication of the Counselling Practitioners’ Council of Nigeria Act, 2022, in Oyo State, noting that this would strengthen the regulation and accessibility of professional counselling services across various sectors.

According to him, the domestication of the Act would provide a stronger framework for integrating counselling services into the education, health, social welfare and public service systems of the State, while aligning state-level practices with the national regulatory framework.

He stressed that effective counselling services were essential to identifying challenges confronting young people early, providing appropriate interventions and guiding them towards responsible and productive lifestyles.

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mrs. Bamidele Oyinloye, charged counsellors to demonstrate greater passion, commitment and professionalism in the discharge of their duties.

Mrs. Oyinloye urged counsellors to remain proactive and resilient despite the challenges they might encounter in the course of their responsibilities, particularly in schools, noting that a more responsive counselling system would contribute significantly to improving students’ academic performance, behaviour and overall wellbeing.

Speaking on the purpose of the visit, the Director, Counselling Institute of Nigeria and leader of the delegation, Prof. Ayo Hammed, explained that the CPCN Act, 2022, establishes the Counselling Practitioners’ Council of Nigeria as the statutory regulator of the counselling profession in Nigeria.

He said the Council was responsible for setting professional standards, registering qualified practitioners, maintaining a register of practitioners, regulating professional conduct and taking disciplinary measures where necessary, adding that the Act provides a national framework for the practice of counselling in Nigeria.

Prof. Hammed further explained that domestication of the Act in Oyo State would enable state mechanisms to translate national professional standards into effective recruitment, service delivery, training and monitoring of counselling practitioners.

He noted that a coordinated approach would also make professional counselling services more accessible across public institutions, including schools, hospitals, community centres and social welfare agencies.

According to him, other benefits of domesticating the Act include stronger professional recognition and clearer standards of practice, improved safeguards against unqualified practice and professional misconduct, as well as the potential expansion of counselling services across various sectors of the State.

He therefore called for continued collaboration between the State Government and relevant professional stakeholders towards strengthening counselling services and ensuring that young people receive timely guidance and support.

E-Signed* :
Prince Dotun Oyelade
Hon.Commissioner for Information,
Oyo State

As part of ongoing efforts to improve the standard of education in the state, the Oyo State Government has strengthened the activities of the Education Trust Fund (ETF) to drive quality education through resource mobilization, improved infrastructure, enhanced learning environments, and capacity building for teachers and students.

The Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Hon. Olusegun Olayiwola, disclosed this during the symbolic distribution of science equipment and materials to selected public secondary schools across all Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Oyo State. The event was held on Friday at the ETF Office, Onireke, Ibadan.

Speaking on behalf of the State Governor, Hon. Olayiwola commended principals, teachers, and students for securing third place nationwide in the last NECO examination. He attributed the achievement to the State’s investment in education, particularly the recent recruitment of more than 16,000 teachers.

He encouraged them to sustain the momentum and remain committed, expressing optimism that Oyo State could achieve first position in upcoming examinations conducted by the National Examinations Council (NECO) and the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) in 2026.

The Commissioner noted that the initiative by the ETF is aimed at bridging the gap between theory and practical learning in science subjects, thereby stimulating students’ interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). According to him, the intervention will promote equity and equal opportunities for students regardless of their socio-economic backgrounds, while also empowering teachers to effectively demonstrate scientific principles.

He added that the provision of modern science equipment would make lessons more engaging and interactive, enhance practical learning, improve comprehension and retention, and ultimately lead to better performance in both internal and external examinations.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Chairman of the Oyo State Education Trust Fund, Barr. Rahman Abdu-Raheem, reaffirmed the Fund’s commitment to complementing Government efforts in improving educational standards through resource mobilization, infrastructure development, and the provision of learning materials to public schools.

He stated that the Fund has recorded significant achievements in the construction and renovation of classrooms, creating safer and more conducive learning environments for students, as well as the provision of durable school furniture to improve comfort and orderliness in classrooms.

Barr. Abdu-Raheem also appreciated the State Government’s strong commitment to consistent educational development, noting that the interventions were made possible through the unwavering support of the Government.

He further revealed that the Fund plans to implement additional interventions in phases, including the supply of science materials to more public schools, partnerships with sister agencies for the renovation of existing vocational training facilities to engage youths meaningfully, and capacity-building programmes for teachers and students.

In their goodwill messages, the President of the All Nigeria Conference of Principals of Secondary Schools (ANCOPSS) and the Chairman of the National Parent-Teacher Association of Nigeria (NAPTAN) jointly commended the state government for its numerous initiatives aimed at advancing education in Oyo State.

A total of 99 schools were selected for the first phase of the distribution. Some of the science materials distributed include pivot, metre rule, conical flask, silver nitrate, formalin, copper sulphate, thermometer, funnel, and sodium hydroxide, among others.

The Oyo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the education sector through strategic partnerships with old students’ associations aimed at boosting academic performance and enhancing school infrastructure.

The Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Hon. Olusegun Olayiwola, made this known while receiving the executive members of the Ibadan Grammar School Old Students Association in his office.

He commended the alumni for their numerous developmental projects in the school and pledged the Government’s unwavering support to sustain and raise the standard of education across the State.

Olayiwola disclosed that over 14,000 teachers were recruited last year, with an additional 500 teachers set to be employed by TESCOM in the coming academic term. He urged parents, alumni associations, and stakeholders to collaborate with Government in creating a more conducive learning environment, while also rewarding outstanding students through scholarships and awards.

In his remarks, the Chairman of the Ibadan branch of the association, Prof. Siji Adeogun, applauded the State Government’s efforts at improving education and praised the Commissioner for his cordial relationship and continuous support.

Prof. Adeogun highlighted several projects executed by the association, including the establishment of modern laboratories for Mathematics, Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Geography, Agriculture, Fine Arts, and Basic Science. Others include a fully equipped technical drawing room, sick bay, buttery, standard tennis court, indoor badminton court, potable water supply, hostel facilities, and ongoing perimeter fencing for improved security.

He assured the Government of the association’s sustained commitment to supporting the school’s growth and fostering a legacy of excellence in education.

Omotoso Olukemi

Press Officer,

Ministry of Education, Science and Technology

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has presented an Award of Honour to the Oyo State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Hon. Olusegun Olayiwola, in recognition of his role in fostering harmony between Government, school management, and students across the State.

The award was presented during a courtesy visit by the executive members of the association to the Ministry’s conference room. The students commended the Commissioner for his contributions to educational development and for sustaining peaceful relations within the academic community.

Receiving the delegation, Hon. Olayiwola reaffirmed the State Government’s commitment to partner with NANS in tackling cultism, drug abuse, and other vices in primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions. He stressed that Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration has continued to invest heavily in education to promote both academic excellence and sound character formation.

Also speaking, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Student Affairs, Hon. Victor Olojede, described NANS as an active bridge between the student body and the Government in preventing unnecessary protests. He emphasized that peaceful and sustainable educational progress could only be achieved through stronger collaboration among school authorities, the academic community, local governments, and security agencies.

In his remarks, the NANS Oyo State Chairman, Comrade Tiamiyu Taiwo Ademola, commended the State Government for prioritizing students’ welfare and involving them in governance.

He explained that the association represents students across all levels, primary, secondary, and tertiary and would intensify campaigns against drug abuse in secondary schools from the next academic session.

Comrade Tiamiyu further appealed to the Government to address security concerns, improve accommodation in some tertiary institutions, and provide better logistics support for the association’s activities.

Present at the meeting were the Honorable Commissioner for Education Science and Technology, Hon. Olusegun Olayiwola, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, Mrs. Bamidele Oyinloye; Special Adviser to the Governor on Education Intervention, Oloye Suraj Abiodun Tiamiyu; Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Student Affairs, Hon. Victor Olojede; and Director of Higher and Continuing Education, Mr. Oluwole Adewale.

Omotoso Olukemi

Press officer,

Min of Education Science and Technology

The Oyo State Government, has set up a Staff Audit and verification committee for the Adeseun Ogundoyin Polytechnic, Eruwa.

The verification exercise  reaffirms the Government’s transparency, accountability and excellence.

While inaugurating the Committee at the Scholarship Board Conference Room of the Ministry, Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Hon. Olusegun Olayiwola, described the move as a milestone in the Governor Makinde led administration drive to build a more efficient, transparent and future-ready Polytechnic system.

He emphasized that the Polytechnic’s strength lies not only in academic quality but also in the integrity and effectiveness of its workforce.

He explained that the committee is tasked with  verifying staff records, identifying gaps and redundancies.

Also, the committee will recommend policies to improve efficiency, while maintaining professionalism, impartiality and confidentiality.

Hon. Olayiwola, therefore pledged the Ministry’s support for the success of the exercise, expressing hope that the exercise would provide reliable data to guide the institution’s future.

In her welcome address, the  Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs. Bamidele Oyinloye commended the management of the institution for past cooperation and called for stronger collaboration to move higher education in the State forward.

In his contribution, the  Chairman of the Governing Council, Prof. Kazeem Adebiyi, explained that the committee was formed following requests from the polytechnic’s union members, stressing the need to strengthen operations for better results.

The committee is chaired by Prof. Sarafadeen Kareem, with Dr. Ibrahim Rasheed as Secretary, alongside members drawn from other institutions, the Ministry of Education, and stakeholders from the polytechnic’s union.

E-signed:

Prince Dotun Oyelade,

Commissioner for Information and Orientation,

Oyo State.

The Honourable Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Hon. Olusegun Olayiwola, has reiterated the ban on mobile phones in schools, particularly in examination halls, warning that violators will face strict consequences.

He made this known today while addressing education stakeholders including Permanent Secretaries, Inspectors General of Education (PS/IGEs), and Heads of Departments during a meeting held at the Ministry’s conference room.

Hon. Olayiwola emphasized the importance of discipline and integrity in the conduct of examinations, noting that an official circular already prohibits students from bringing mobile phones into school premises and examination venues. He urged school authorities to enforce this directive without exception.

He further stressed that the use of smartwatches, meta eyeglasses, and other devices that could facilitate examination malpractice is also strictly prohibited.

The Commissioner called on teachers, parents, and guardians to monitor their wards closely and ensure compliance with these directives.

“We must all work together to uphold the integrity of our education system and maintain discipline across our schools,” he stated.

Omotoso Olukemi
Press Officer
Ministry of Education, Science and Technology

The Oyo State Government has announced scheduled dates for the 2025 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) and Common Entrance examination across the State.

The Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Hon. Olayiwola Olusegun in a statement on Saturday, informed the general public, especially parents, guardians and students in Junior Secondary Schools throughout the State, that the Ministry will conduct BECE between Monday 7″ July and Wednesday 16″ July, 2025.

He added that the examination will commence by 9.30 am daily at the respective schools of the candidates.

Meanwhile, the 2025 Screening/Placement Exercise, also known as Common Entrance Examination into Junior Secondary Schools, will come up on Thursday, 17 July 2025.

According to him, the exercise will commence by 7.00 am at the designated screening centers for Screening/Placement Exercise.

He enjoined students to go to designated examination centres with their writing materials.

The Commissioner therefore directed principals to make proper and adequate arrangements for the monitoring of the examination throughout the period.

His words: “Ministry officials and members of the Oyo State Examination Ethics committee will be moving round to monitor the exercise and ensure that the integrity of the examination is not compromised.”

“The students and pupils are enjoined in their own interest to avoid all forms of examination malpractices and members of the public are strictly warned against loitering at these schools and designated screening centres”.

He stressed that the entrance examination is for the eligible candidates only.

E-signed:

Prince Dotun Oyelade,
Commissioner for Information and Orientation.

The Oyo State Government has urged Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), stakeholders, and philanthropists to support vulnerable and underprivileged students in public schools, emphasizing that the Government cannot shoulder the responsibility alone.

The Commissioner for Education, Science, and Technology, Prof. Salihu Adelabu, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Zone II, Miss Yemi Ojo, made this appeal during the presentation of school packs by Karma Agric Feeds to pupils of St. Andrews Basic School, Ara Oje, in Oluyole Local Government Area. The event took place at the school’s football field.

Prof. Adelabu highlighted the government’s recent recruitment of teachers for both primary and secondary schools under Governor Seyi Makinde’s leadership, aimed at enhancing educational standards and securing a better future for young learners.

He commended Karma Agric Feeds for their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative and urged other well-meaning individuals and organizations to collaborate with the Government to invest in the education sector.

Speaking at the event, the CEO of Karma Agric Feeds, Dr. Shashikant Teletumade, expressed his company’s commitment to giving back to society by supporting schoolchildren. He appreciated the State Government for fostering a business-friendly environment and assured continued contributions to community development.

The donation included school bags, sandals, notebooks, and uniforms for over 120 pupils, bringing smiles to their faces and easing the burden on their families.

Omotoso Olukemi

Press Officer

Min. Of Education.

…as  Education Commissioner  tasks them on new roles

Oyo State Government through the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, on Thursday, trained all education officers across the State on various skills needed to further improve the standard of education in public Schools.

The Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Salihu Adelabu, while declaring  a day capacity building programme for Education officers open at Oladipo Alayande School of Science (School Hall), Oke- Bola, Ibadan, charged Education Officers to always learn and acquire new skills that would enable improved productivity in the discharge of their duties.

Adelabu said further at the capacity building themed  “Equipping  Education Officers with New Skills for Better Service Delivery” that  time is pricier than money and education officers are to spend their time on learning and relearning to ensure they reach the peak of their careers.

The commissioner also stressed the need to continue organizing capacity-building workshops to equip officers with skills needed to perform their roles.

The capacity building centered on Professional Ethics, Duties and Responsibilities, Civil service rules and Financial Regulations.

In their separate remarks, the PS/IG, Kajola Local Government, Engr Adebayo Salam and PS/IG Ibarapa zone, Mrs B. T, Oyinloye called on Education officers to maintain high standards and continue adding values to the education sector while performing their roles”

The duo admonished them to apply the knowledge acquired from the training to their teaching activities.

Education officers present at the training thanked the Oyo State Government and the ministry of education for the initiative, saying that the capacity building would enhance their productivity in terms of teaching and learning.

E-signed

Media Team of MoES&T,

… defeats Security Sector 1 against 0

The Oyo State Education Sector on Tuesday defeated the Security Sector to emerge champions of the 2024 Oyo State Inter- Sectorial Football Competition.

The Education Sector team, comprising teachers and officials from the State’s education ministry and educational sector, won the match by a lone goal.

Jimoh Mutairu scored the goal in the second half of the final match played at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, Ibadan.

The match, which was organized to foster camaraderie and teamwork among different sectors of the State Government, was witnessed by top officials from both the education and security sectors.

Shortly before presenting the trophy to the winning team, Oyo State Governor, Engr Seyi Makinde admonished all civil servants in the State to prioritize physical fitness as part of efforts to boost their overall well-being and make them more productive .

He harped on the importance of exercise in maintaining a healthy lifestyle, adding that physical fitness improves individual health and enhances workplace performance.

He commended the organizers of the match and all participants at the event, adding that the present administration had invested immensely in sporting facilities and activities in the State.

According to him, “We want to encourage our civil servants to integrate physical activity into their daily lifestyles. When you exercise your body, and you’re physically fit, it can also enhance your heartbeat and productivity at the workplace.”

“Through initiatives like the Civil Service Games, we hope to create a more vibrant and motivated civil service that will contribute significantly to the development of Oyo State,”

The victory was celebrated by the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Salihu Adelabi and the entire education sector in the State.
According to the commissioner,
“This victory is a testament to the teamwork and dedication of our team,”

“It is a clear demonstration of the fact that we’re not only concerned about the cognitive domain of learning, but also the psychomotor and affective domains as well”.