The Genesis of a New Institution: Federal University of Technology and Environmental Sciences, Iyin Ekiti
The Federal University of Technology and Environmental Sciences (FUTES), Iyin Ekiti, stands poised at the cusp of its inaugural academic year, a testament to the vision of its Vice Chancellor, Professor Gbenga Aribisala. With an anticipated launch in October 2025, FUTES embodies the ambition to not simply establish another university, but to forge a unique institution dedicated to addressing critical national challenges, particularly unemployment, through a rigorous focus on practical, problem-solving education. The university’s initial structure comprises four key faculties: Engineering, Computer Science, Natural and Applied Sciences, and Environmental Sciences, a carefully curated selection designed to equip students with skills directly relevant to contemporary needs and opportunities.
Central to the FUTES philosophy is the commitment to a fully residential system, an intentional choice intended to foster a close-knit learning community and cultivate a culture of discipline and academic excellence. This residential model aims to create an immersive educational experience, allowing students to fully engage with their studies and build strong connections with their peers and faculty. The university’s leadership envisions FUTES as a place where character development goes hand in hand with intellectual growth, producing well-rounded individuals prepared to contribute meaningfully to society.
Professor Aribisala’s vision for FUTES extends beyond national boundaries. He articulates a bold ambition for the institution to become the leading university in Africa, a goal underpinned by a commitment to building a “problem-solving, human-centred institution.” This forward-thinking approach prioritizes not just the acquisition of knowledge, but the application of that knowledge to real-world challenges, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. The university’s focus extends beyond traditional academic disciplines to encompass the development of critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership skills, equipping graduates to tackle complex issues and drive positive change.
Building a Foundation for Excellence: Recruitment, Resources, and Public Support
The nascent university is actively preparing for its inaugural intake of students, with recruitment efforts set to commence soon. Advertisements for academic positions will be placed in various media outlets and on the university’s official website. Professor Aribisala emphasized the importance of attracting highly qualified and dedicated scholars committed to imparting knowledge and fostering a vibrant learning environment. He also cautioned prospective applicants against fraudulent websites or agents, urging them to rely solely on official channels for information regarding recruitment.
The National Universities Commission (NUC) has already conducted a resource verification exercise, expressing satisfaction with the existing facilities. FUTES awaits formal communication from the NUC and the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) before officially commencing the admission process. This meticulous approach highlights the university’s commitment to ensuring adherence to established standards and regulations, laying a strong foundation for academic credibility and recognition.
Recognizing the limitations of government funding, Professor Aribisala has appealed to public-spirited individuals and organizations for support in developing critical infrastructure, particularly student hostels. He has outlined various avenues for philanthropic contributions, including donations of buildings, scholarships, and the construction of privately-owned hostels, offering naming rights as recognition for significant contributions. This proactive approach to resource mobilization underscores the university’s commitment to providing a conducive learning environment for its students while fostering a sense of shared ownership and community involvement.
Celebrating Achievement and Embracing Collaboration: The Role of the Alumni Network
The recent reception organized by the 1979 set of the Ifaki Grammar School Old Students Association (IGSOSA) in honor of Professor Aribisala highlights the significance of alumni networks in supporting educational advancement. The event served as a platform to celebrate Aribisala’s appointment as Vice Chancellor and to express confidence in his ability to establish FUTES as a world-class institution. This recognition reflects the pride and support of his alma mater and underscores the importance of community involvement in nurturing future leaders.
The IGSOSA Coordinator, Mr. Olajide Familoye, emphasized the collective nature of Aribisala’s success, highlighting the role of shared experiences and mutual support in achieving individual and institutional goals. The alumni network serves as a valuable resource, providing mentorship, networking opportunities, and financial support to contribute to the growth and development of educational institutions.
FUTES Registrar, Mr. Oluwole Dada, acknowledged the importance of IGSOSA’s commitment to celebrating excellence and assured the association of the university’s dedication to meeting the community’s aspirations for high-quality education. This exchange underscores the symbiotic relationship between educational institutions and their alumni networks, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and mutual support in achieving shared goals.
A Vision for the Future: Fostering Innovation and Impact
FUTES emerges not just as a new university, but as a symbol of hope and aspiration for a nation grappling with significant challenges. The institution’s focus on practical skills development, character building, and problem-solving aims to produce graduates equipped to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s development and beyond. The emphasis on a residential system, coupled with a commitment to attracting top-tier academic staff, further strengthens the university’s foundation for excellence.
Professor Aribisala’s vision for FUTES is ambitious and far-reaching, encompassing not only academic excellence but also social impact. He envisions the university as a catalyst for change, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship among its students, and empowering them to tackle complex challenges, particularly unemployment. This forward-thinking approach positions FUTES not merely as an educational institution, but as a driving force for societal transformation.
The Path Ahead: Collaboration, Resource Mobilization, and Continued Growth
As FUTES prepares to open its doors to its first cohort of students, the journey ahead requires continued collaboration and support. The university’s leadership recognizes the importance of public-private partnerships in realizing its ambitious goals. The call for support in developing critical infrastructure, particularly student housing, highlights the need for shared responsibility in building a conducive learning environment.
The university’s success hinges not just on attracting talented students and faculty, but also on cultivating a culture of excellence, innovation, and social responsibility. By fostering a close-knit community and providing opportunities for students to apply their knowledge to real-world challenges, FUTES aims to produce graduates who are not only highly skilled but also deeply committed to making a positive impact on the world. The road ahead is challenging, but the vision is clear: to build a world-class institution that serves as a beacon of hope and opportunity for Nigeria and the African continent.
