Kwara’s tertiary institutions shine with innovative developments amid educational reforms – Commissioner affirms
Kwara State is making significant strides in its educational landscape under the leadership of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, as highlighted by the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Hajia Sa’adatu Modibbo Kawu, during the 2025 first quarterly inter-ministerial press briefing.
The administration’s focus on inclusive and innovative educational development is transforming State-owned tertiary institutions into exemplary models of academic excellence that positively impact the community.
Among the key achievements, the International Vocational, Technical and Entrepreneurship College (IVTEC) in Ajase-Ipo has sponsored 200 youths in Batch 8 of the Youths Empowerment and Employment Generation Scheme (KWYEEGS), showcasing the government’s commitment to practical and job-oriented education.
Notably, the Kwara State College of Arabic and Islamic Legal Studies (CAILS), Ilorin, has become the first institution in Nigeria to secure accreditation for diploma programs in Mass Communication, Computer Science, and Islamic Common Law.
Hajia Modibbo Kawu reported that all six National Diploma programs submitted to the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) received full accreditation, and the College achieved a remarkable 100% pass rate in the TRCN re-accreditation exercise.
To further expand access and encourage innovation, CAILS introduced a Sandwich Degree Programme in partnership with the Kwara State University (KWASU) and has begun constructing hostels to enhance internal revenue.
The College is also preparing to launch online classes and outreach centers. Other developments include the installation of a 3,300KVA transformer, the establishment of a block-making industry, and the revitalization of the College Bulletin.
The newly established Kwara State University of Education has made impressive strides by accrediting 20 courses and securing a position on the JAMB admission portal, signaling its pursuit of academic excellence.
The International Aviation College in Ilorin celebrated the graduation of 19 pilots, including 10 military and 9 civilians, recently. Additionally, the State sponsored the international training of two aircraft engineers and one flight instructor in South Africa, bolstering its reputation in aviation training.
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s administration has also successfully completed long-standing projects, including a 1,000-capacity multipurpose auditorium at the Kwara State Polytechnic and renovations of student hostels through TETFund. New academic programs in Railway Engineering, Taxation, and Social Work were introduced, and several crucial accreditations were obtained for various programs.
The Polytechnic has adopted the new minimum wage, initiated income-generating projects such as a commercial farm and water production plant, and launched new CBT and medical diagnostic centers. Furthermore, the Kwara State College of Health Technology, Offa, held its 26th matriculation ceremony, reinforcing its significance in public health education. At the College of Nursing Sciences, Oke-Ode, new ND and HND Nursing programs received accreditation, with the first cohort of ND Nursing students formally matriculated.