The Moshood Abiola University of Science and Technology (MAUSTECH), envisioned as a beacon of technological advancement in Abeokuta, Ogun State, has experienced a tumultuous journey marked by political shifts and administrative challenges.

 

Genesis of MAUSTECH

In March 2017, the Ogun State government, under Governor Ibikunle Amosun, enacted legislation to elevate the Moshood Abiola Polytechnic (MAPOLY) to university status, birthing MAUSTECH. This move aimed to honor the late Chief Moshood Abiola and expand the state's educational horizon. Concurrently, a new Ogun State Polytechnic was proposed for Ipokia to continue offering polytechnic education.

The National Universities Commission (NUC) endorsed this transformation in July 2017, recognizing MAUSTECH as Nigeria's 85th public university. The state government allocated ₦50 billion to facilitate the establishment of both MAUSTECH and the new polytechnic.

 

Administrative Hurdles and Policy Reversals

Despite initial enthusiasm, MAUSTECH faced operational delays. In April 2019, Governor Amosun inaugurated a 10-member governing council to oversee the university's commencement. However, the transition led to disruptions at MAPOLY, causing uncertainty among students and staff.

Upon assuming office in May 2019, Governor Dapo Abiodun reversed the previous administration's policy, reinstating MAPOLY's status and suspending MAUSTECH's establishment. He cited the need to address the operational challenges and ensure the viability of the institutions. A committee was formed to evaluate the situation and recommend a sustainable path forward.

In July 2019, Governor Abiodun formally requested the State House of Assembly to amend the law establishing MAUSTECH, effectively halting its progression.

 

Calls for Resuscitation and Regional Advocacy

The suspension of MAUSTECH sparked debates and appeals from various stakeholders. In June 2020, a state legislator advocated for the establishment of MAUSTECH in Ogun West Senatorial District, emphasizing the need for equitable educational development. Conversely, Egba community leaders urged the government to retain MAUSTECH in Abeokuta, highlighting the city's lack of a state-owned university.

 

Current Status and Prospects

As of now, MAPOLY continues to operate in Abeokuta, while the proposed Ogun State Polytechnic in Ipokia remains under consideration. The future of MAUSTECH hinges on political will, stakeholder consensus, and strategic planning to address the educational aspirations of Ogun State.

 

Need for new State University.

Considering the contribution of education to the development of our Ogun state and Nigerians at large.

Many state are now establishing more university to enhance their human capacity development, the record have shown that state are now having at least two or more university for example Lagos has three, Lagos State University, (LASU) Ojo, Lagos State university of Education ( LASUED) Ijanikin and Lagos State university of science and technology ( LASUSTECH) Ikorodu. Oyo state now having three university as well, Ladoke Akintola university of science and technology (LAUTECH) Ogbomoso, Emmanuel Alayande University of Education (EAUED) Oyo and Abiola Ajimobi Technical University (AATECHU) Ibadan, Ondo state is also having three universities which are Adekunle Amazing (AAUA) Akungba Akoko, Olusegun Agagu University of science and technology (OAUSTECH)Okitipupa also Ekiti state is also having two university, Ekiti state University (EKSU) Ado- Ekiti, Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Ikere Ekiti while Osun state also had Osun state University (OSU) Osogbo and University of Ilesa located in Ilesha.

In view of this Ogun state is left with one university Olabisi Onabanjo university, (OOU) Ago- Iwoye after the taking over of Tai solarin university of Education by the federal government.

 

Conclusion

In view of the above it's expected of the Ogun state government to revisit the issue of MAUSTECH as a priority now that the state is left with only one university considering the fact that the state is a leading light in educational development in South west and Nigeria as a whole.

The university should be considered for its original place, Abeokuta.

The journey of MAUSTECH underscores the complexities of educational reform in Nigeria, where visionary initiatives must navigate political transitions and administrative realities. Reviving MAUSTECH requires a concerted effort to reconcile past ambitions with present-day feasibility, ensuring that the legacy of Chief Moshood Abiola continues to inspire educational excellence in Ogun State.

 

Comrade Egberongbe T Taiwo PhD.

titaiwoegbe@gmail.com

Abeokuta, Ogun State.