Rector of the Year: Dr. Abdul Jimoh Emerged with Milestone

Rector of the Year: Dr. Abdul Jimoh Emerged with Milestone

By: Olufadi Balarabe Ayuba

Administrative tasks, sometimes, require nothing but the right man to drive the system to the promised land. And this was what happened two years ago, when Dr. Abdul Jimoh was appointed as the new Rector of Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin. Until his appointment, the reputed academician was the Deputy Rector (Academic) of the Federal Polytechnic, Offa, Kwara State. 

Having fully grasped one of the mandates of Kwara State Polytechnic as a technology-driven institution, the first notable achievement he steered was the introduction of the first ever pedal-operated hand washing machine to replace the traditional one, to support the government in combating the spread of the novel COVID-19. His administration further intensified his efforts by producing thousands of bottles of sanitizers which were distributed in the State. 

Within the space of two years, the light that seems dim at the end of the tunnel is now shining and lighting the dark cave. As an altruistic leader, his outstanding works continued and resulted in elevating the name of the Polytechnic to an enviable height by rising in the yearly ranking as one of the fastest growing schools with academic excellence. 

His meritorious achievements has set Kwara State Polytechnic in a befitting  position among other polytechnics in Nigeria. Recently, his Administration completed a 2,000 capacity ultra modern auditorium which was named after the Late Fmr Governor. Muhammad Alabi Lawal which has been in a state of uncompleted for over 16 years. He also introduced the Computer Based Test (CBT) at the Polytechnic which has been approved by the Academic Board and was used for the 2021 JAMB. Provision of furniture, the 225 units of four-seater chairs for some lecture rooms in both the Main and Mini campuses from funds saved through prudent management of NIPOGA budget. Rehabilitation of machines. Collaboration with Federal Institute of Industrial Research Oshodi (FIIRO). Also, improvement on internally generated revenue (IGR). Re-equiped Institute of Technology (IOT). Certificate security, in terms of quality and authenticity, the certificate is undoubtedly first of its kind in the history of the Polytechnic. The school medical centre takes a new shape with modern equipment. Departmental revolution in Computer Science. Staff welfare and SUG election without interference. 

To express his compassion as a father to the students of the Polytechnic, he built and renovated some abandoned hostels, to enhance the students' well being, which would result in strengthening their academic performances. Also, his Administration has reduced and upgraded the Part-Time programmes' academic calendar into two years with qualitative and effective pedagogy. 

His Administration further oversaw the provision of fast foods by establishing a bakery industry and a pure water factory in the Polytechnic. The purpose of the industries is to drive the Polytechnic's revenue and provide job opportunities to the students. 

His stewardship also positioned the Polytechnic to host the landmark 20th Edition of the Nigerian Polytechnic Games (NIPOGA) with nothing less than 4,000 participants across the country. The Polytechnic FM, which is set to operate with modern equipment is also a noteworthy achievement. Few days ago, the Polytechnic celebrated a combined convocation ceremonies in grand style. 

With more than 27 years of managerial experience under the academic umbrella, Dr. Abdul Jimoh Mohammed has carved a niche for himself and indeed, he deserves the laurel of being named as the Best Rector of the Year 2021. Congratulations, Sir!