Overview and History of Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH)

 
Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) is a prominent public research institution located in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria. Established on April 23, 1990, the university has consistently pursued excellence in technological education and research.

##Founding and Early Development
The inception of LAUTECH dates back to 1987 when Governor Adetunji Olurin, the then Military Governor of Oyo State, responded to a proposal from the Governing Council of The Polytechnic, Ibadan, advocating for the creation of a state university. This led to the formation of a seven-member interministerial committee in 1988, chaired by Mrs. Oyinkan Ayoola, which recommended the establishment of the university. The federal military government approved this initiative on March 13, 1990, and the official edict was signed on April 23, 1990, marking the birth of the Oyo State University of Technology. 

The university commenced its inaugural academic session on October 19, 1990, with an initial enrollment of 436 students across four faculties: Agricultural Sciences, Environmental Sciences, Engineering and Management Sciences, and Pure and Applied Sciences. A year later, in October 1991, the College of Health Sciences was established, expanding the university's academic offerings. 

##Transition and Renaming
In 1991, the creation of Osun State from the former Oyo State necessitated a reevaluation of the university's structure and ownership. This geopolitical change led to the renaming of the institution to Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, in honor of Chief Ladoke Akintola, a notable statesman and former Premier of the Western Region of Nigeria. 

##Ownership and Administrative Challenges
The joint ownership of LAUTECH by Oyo and Osun States became a source of contention, especially after Osun State established its own university. Disputes over governance and resource allocation intensified over the years, leading to administrative challenges and disruptions. In response to these issues, the National Universities Commission (NUC) intervened, and on November 20, 2020, full ownership of LAUTECH was transferred exclusively to the Oyo State Government under Governor Oluseyi Abiodun Makinde. 

##Current Leadership
As of February, 2025, Professor Razaq Olatunde Rom Kalilu serves as the substantive Vice-Chancellor of LAUTECH. His appointment was approved by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, marking a new chapter in the university's leadership. Professor Kalilu brings a wealth of experience and a commitment to advancing the university's mission of excellence in technological education and research. 

##Academic Structure and Programs
LAUTECH offers a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various fields of study. The university comprises multiple faculties, including:

Faculty of Agricultural Sciences

Faculty of Environmental Sciences

Faculty of Engineering and Technology

Faculty of Pure and Applied Sciences

College of Health Sciences


These faculties are designed to provide comprehensive education and research opportunities, fostering innovation and practical skills among students. 

##Campus and Facilities
The main campus of LAUTECH is situated in Ogbomoso North, Oyo State. This campus houses the central administration, lecture halls, laboratories, libraries, and student accommodations. The university is equipped with modern facilities to support academic and extracurricular activities, creating a conducive environment for learning and personal development. 

##Research and Innovation
Committed to advancing knowledge and technological innovation, LAUTECH emphasizes research across various disciplines. The university encourages collaborative projects, industry partnerships, and community engagement to address real-world challenges. Through its research centers and institutes, LAUTECH contributes significantly to scientific discoveries and technological advancements in Nigeria and beyond. 

##Student Life and Extracurricular Activities
Beyond academics, LAUTECH offers a vibrant student life with numerous extracurricular activities. Students are encouraged to participate in various clubs, societies, and sports, promoting holistic development and leadership skills. The university's commitment to excellence, integrity, and service is reflected in its efforts to nurture well-rounded graduates prepared to contribute meaningfully to society. 

##Library
Ladoke Akintola University of Technology was founded in July 1990. From its establishment until January 1999, the university library operated within a limited space inside the building that now houses the university bookshop. In February 1999, the library was moved to its current permanent location on the main campus. Today, it has the capacity to accommodate up to 3,000 users simultaneously.