From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
The Acting Rector of Kwara State polytechnic, Dr. (Mrs.) Felicia Awolola, has urged staff and students to prioritise patronage of goods produced within the institution as part of efforts to strengthen the local economy and improve hands-on learning.
Awolola made the appeal during an inspection of the institution’s wood workshop at the Institute of Skills Acquisition, ahead of the forthcoming TETFund assessment of skills development interventions for beneficiary polytechnics in 2025.
Speaking during the visit, the Rector challenged workshop personnel to raise their standards and focus on producing quality furniture that can meet the needs of the school community.
She said the institution should serve as the first market for its own products before exploring opportunities beyond the campus.
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“We must begin to look inward. If we produce high-quality furniture here, there is no reason the Polytechnic and its staff should not be the primary buyers,” she said.
Awolola stressed that boosting internal patronage would not only support local production but also help build confidence in the quality of goods made by students and artisans within the school.
She further encouraged a collaborative approach among students, suggesting group-based projects as a way of combining learning with income generation.
“Let students work together on practical projects. This will not only provide them with financial benefits but also equip them with relevant skills aligned with their courses,” she added.
In her response, the Director of the Institute of Skills Acquisition, Engr. (Mrs.) Onipede Elizabeth, welcomed the initiative, noting that integrating student projects with local craftsmanship holds significant promise.
She expressed readiness to explore the proposal, describing it as a step that could enhance both skill acquisition and productivity within the institution.
