OSPOLY Announces 2026 Convocation Schedule, Makes AI Course Mandatory for Students

The Rector of Osun State Polytechnic Iree, Alhaji Kehinde Adeyemi Alabi, has officially unveiled the programme of events for the institution’s 2026 convocation ceremony while outlining major academic and infrastructural milestones achieved under his leadership.

Speaking at a press briefing held at the institution’s ETF Hall on March 23, 2026, the Rector disclosed that the grand finale of the Combined 8th Convocation Ceremony is scheduled for Thursday, March 26, 2026. The event will feature the conferment of diplomas, certificates, and awards on graduating students across multiple academic sessions.

As part of the convocation lineup, a keynote lecture will be delivered on Wednesday, March 25, by a Professor of Business Administration from Federal University Oye Ekiti. The lecture will be followed by a cocktail reception at the institution’s Staff Club. Additional activities include a novelty football match between members of staff and alumni, aimed at fostering engagement and institutional bonding.

In a major academic development, the Rector announced the introduction of Artificial Intelligence as a compulsory course for all students. According to him, the initiative is designed to strengthen digital literacy and position graduates for relevance in an increasingly technology-driven global economy.

He noted that the inclusion of AI in the curriculum reflects the institution’s commitment to equipping students with future-ready skills and enhancing their competitiveness in both local and international job markets.

Highlighting the institution’s academic strength, Alabi revealed that the polytechnic currently offers 36 National Diploma and 34 Higher National Diploma programmes, all of which have secured full accreditation from the National Board for Technical Education.

The Rector also outlined key infrastructural upgrades carried out by the administration. These include the rehabilitation of lecture theatres, modernization of staff offices, improved power supply, and the reconstruction of internal road networks. Other interventions include staff capacity development in e-learning, acquisition of modern medical equipment, and expansion of vocational and skill acquisition programmes for students.

On academic collaborations, the institution has established strategic partnerships with University of Ilorin and Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka to enhance teaching, research, and overall academic delivery.

Addressing staff welfare, the Rector attributed the consistent payment of salaries and allowances to the sustained support of the Osun State Government under the leadership of Governor Ademola Adeleke. He emphasized that the administration’s focus on worker welfare has contributed significantly to a stable and productive working environment.

He further commended the Dean of Students’ Affairs, Dr. Olutope Abiola, for fostering effective communication between students and management, a development he said has helped maintain peace and stability on campus.

Looking ahead, the Rector announced that plans have been finalized to make the convocation ceremony an annual event beginning from 2027, in line with global best practices in higher education.

The 2026 convocation will accommodate graduates from the 2020/2021 through the 2024/2025 academic sessions, marking a significant milestone for the institution and its stakeholders.