Ekiti State Urged to Transform Knowledge into Wealth in Next Decade

Dr. Tunji Olowolafe, Chancellor of Ekiti State University and founder of the Tunji Olowolafe Foundation, spoke at the Ekiti at 30 Future Summit in Ado-Ekiti. He highlighted the importance of turning the state’s knowledge and resources into wealth and industrial growth.

Olowolafe believes that Ekiti has the potential to achieve significant economic progress in just ten years, rather than the planned thirty, if it focuses on reliable electricity, vocational skills, and connections to global markets. He stated that these elements are crucial for transforming academic knowledge into practical solutions that can reduce poverty and create sustainable wealth.

He proposed conducting a technical audit across Ekiti’s political wards to create renewable energy microgrids. These microgrids could provide electricity to schools, health centers, and small businesses. He suggested that solar microgrids could produce enough power for local communities and that support from the Rural Electrification Agency could help speed up this initiative.

Olowolafe also emphasized the need for modern vocational education. He called for the expansion of technical colleges in the state to better serve the youth seeking practical training. He recommended bringing in experienced instructors from countries known for their strong technical education systems to improve local training.

He pointed out the importance of partnerships between technical colleges and industries, suggesting that companies should help develop training programs and hire graduates directly. He provided an example of how students from Ekiti State University gained practical experience by working on a major highway project.

In addition to education and energy, Olowolafe discussed the need for better infrastructure, citing the Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport as a positive development. He praised the Federal Government for improving key roads that are vital for the state’s economy.

Olowolafe concluded by urging the state to measure its success not just by infrastructure but by how many young people find jobs or start businesses after their training. He expressed hope that the next ten years would prove Ekiti’s capacity to lead in economic development.