With Oyinlola’s health college, there is hope for Nigeria’s healthcare – Okebukola

A former Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC), Prof. Peter Okebukola, has described the Alolade College of Health Sciences and Information Technology, established by former Osun State Governor, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola, as a catalyst for transforming healthcare delivery in Nigeria.

Speaking at the orientation programme and commencement of lectures for the pioneer students of the institution in Okuku, Osun State, on Wednesday, Okebukola said the college is practically oriented and boasts top-notch professionals and scholars as lecturers.

The former NUC boss and former Vice-Chancellor of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, along with other professors and doctors, has pledged to teach at the college.

Okebukola, who chairs the college’s implementation committee, stated that the institution would produce capable and qualified health experts to revolutionize healthcare delivery, information technology, and other sectors.

He remarked: “The Nigerian, African, and global public should expect the best-trained students from this College of Health Sciences and Information Technology, comparable to any institution of its kind in the world.

“We have enhanced the national curriculum with modern, forward-looking content, ensuring not just theory but also extensive practicals. With the best minds, health practitioners, environmental health workers, and IT professionals deeply grounded in their disciplines, we have assembled professors, senior lecturers, and experts to deliver a world-class curriculum.

“The community and I look forward to two years from now when our graduates will be in high demand across Nigeria, Africa, and the world.

“There is hope for healthcare delivery in Nigeria. If we replicate this arrangement elsewhere, there will be hope for the personnel. Healthcare delivery involves several components: infrastructure, personnel, and an enabling environment for operations, which we currently lack in Nigeria. If we produce quality professionals, the government and other stakeholders will address the remaining gaps.”

Prince Oyinlola, the proprietor of the college, explained that he named the institution after his late mother and assured her that it would soon be upgraded to a university.

Addressing the 67 pioneer students, the former governor urged them to adhere to the school’s values and regulations.

He added, “As the first set of students, you have the unique opportunity to set the standards of greatness for future generations to follow. Upon graduation, you will become highly sought-after professionals with cutting-edge expertise to excel in your fields. Your potential for national and global influence is immense, and your future is bright.”

Expressing joy at the college’s full take-off, Oyinlola said: “By the special grace of God, I feel the Lord has been good to me and my family. History may overlook Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola, but if my name isn’t found in Lagos State’s history, it will surely be in Osun State’s.

“In 100 years, who would remember the woman who gave birth to Olagunsoye Oyinlola? This is what inspired me to immortalise her name, especially since she left this world without enjoying the fruits of her labour.”