A Hundred Days of Purposeful Engagement and Student-Centric Leadership by Hon. Kelvin Solomon Olaolu
It is with immense gratitude and a deep sense of responsibility that I mark a significant milestone—the 100th day of my appointment as the Senior Special Assistant on Student Affairs to the Governor of Ondo State. I must begin by expressing my profound appreciation to His Excellency, the Governor of Ondo State, for entrusting me with this vital role.
When we assumed office, our mission was clear: to be a voice and advocate for the student community across the 18 Local Government Areas of Ondo State. In just 100 days, we have not only laid a strong foundation but also initiated and executed several programs and policies designed to address the immediate needs of our students, foster unity, and promote sustainable development. Allow me to highlight some of the key achievements we have recorded within this short but productive period.
1. *The Walk Against Drug Abuse & Trafficking:* One of the most pressing concerns affecting our student community is the growing menace of drug abuse and trafficking. In collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), we organized a Walk Against Drug Abuse to raise awareness on this issue. This walk brought together students, law enforcement, and other stakeholders, underscoring the need for a drug-free academic environment. We are committed to continuing this awareness campaign, as the future of our students depends on them staying drug-free and focused on their education.
2. *Visit to the NYSC Orientation Camp for the Swearing-In Ceremony:* Our office also made a landmark visit to the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Orientation Camp, where we participated in the swearing-in ceremony of new corps members. This visit was not only symbolic but also a demonstration of our commitment to the youth, especially those about to begin a new chapter of service to the nation. We used the platform to remind our graduates of their responsibilities and the importance of patriotism and service to the country.
3. *Provision of Official Social Media Handles:* In today’s digital world, communication is key. To ensure that students can engage directly with our office, we established official social media handles. These platforms have not only enabled us to share timely information but have also allowed students to voice their concerns, ask questions, and receive prompt responses. The goal is to ensure that no student feels left out or unheard, and through these channels, we continue to foster a transparent and interactive relationship with our student community.
4. *Meeting with Indigenous Student Leaders Across the 18 LGAs:* Recognizing the need for inclusive governance, we held strategic meetings with indigenous student leaders across all 18 Local Government Areas. These meetings provided an avenue to understand the unique challenges faced by students in various regions and to tailor solutions that meet their specific needs. This engagement has been instrumental in ensuring that our policies reflect the diverse perspectives of students across the state.
5. *Free Distribution of Fuel to Bike Men During Scarcity:* During the recent fuel scarcity, our office took decisive action by distributing free fuel to bike operators, thereby alleviating the transportation challenges faced by students. This initiative significantly reduced the cost of transportation, enabling students to attend their classes without undue financial burden. We remain committed to providing solutions that ease the daily struggles of our students.
6. *Facilitated a Meeting Between SUG Presidents and the Governor:* One of our most impactful achievements was facilitating a meeting between the Governor and the SUG Presidents of various tertiary institutions in the state. This meeting provided a direct link between the highest office in the state and the student body, allowing for the airing of grievances, exchange of ideas, and discussion of solutions. It was a clear demonstration of our administration’s commitment to inclusive governance and ensuring that student voices are heard at the highest level.
7. *Provision of a Toll-Free Emergency Call Centre for Students:* Safety is a top priority for our administration. To ensure that students have immediate access to help in times of need, we established a Toll-Free Emergency Call Centre. This service provides a lifeline for students in distress, enabling them to report emergencies and receive timely assistance. The feedback from students has been overwhelmingly positive, and we continue to improve and expand this service.
8. *Sponsorship of Student Educational Programs:* We have consistently supported various student-led educational programs, recognizing that such initiatives are key to the personal and professional development of our students. From academic workshops to leadership training, we have provided both financial and logistical support to ensure these programs are successful and impactful.
9. *Addressing Insecurity on Campuses:* The insecurity at Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko (AAUA), was a matter of great concern for our administration. In response, we made a visit to the institution and engaged in fruitful discussions with the Kabiyesi of Akungba and the local police division. Together, we have implemented several measures aimed at improving security within the university and its surrounding community. We will continue to work closely with all stakeholders to ensure that our students are safe and secure.
10. *Empowerment Initiatives and Scholarships:* In the past 100 days, we have facilitated the donation of ₦1 million to empower students through the Dakiz Human Development and Empowerment Initiative (DHDEI) Symposium. Additionally, scholarships and bursary awards were given to students at Möre High School, Afo, Ose LGA, as part of our commitment to making education accessible to all, regardless of financial background.
11. *Support for Indigent Students and Special Needs Groups:* We have also placed a special emphasis on supporting indigent students and students with special needs. One of the highlights was the empowerment of the Youth Wing of the Nigerian Association of the Blind (Ondo State Chapter), where a significant donation was made to encourage their growth and inclusion.
As we reflect on these achievements, we recognize that the work is far from done. Our 100 days in office have laid a solid foundation, but we are committed to doing much more. Moving forward, we will intensify efforts in addressing the pressing challenges facing our students, particularly in areas of security, student loans, and the provision of welfare services.
*Hon. Kevin Solomon Olaolu*
_Senior Special Assistant on Students Affairs to Ondo State Governor_
