The Oyo State government has announced that the Oyo Mobilisation Agency for Socio-Economic Development will soon begin reorientating youths in state-owned tertiary institutions on positive values.
The OYMASED Director-General, Dr Morohunkola Thomas, made this announcement on Thursday during a working visit to the Rector of the Polytechnic Ibadan, Dr Taiwo Lasisi.
Outlining the agency’s mission, Dr Thomas stated that students of the institution represent the future leaders, highlighting the need to instil core values for their mental development.
He expressed concern that students no longer prioritise hard work, opting instead for quick success. He noted that issues such as cultism, thuggery, bullying, substance abuse, and indecent dressing should be actively discouraged among youths.
“Bullying, thuggery, indecent dressing, illicit drug use, and other vices are on the rise, with youths increasingly seeking rapid wealth rather than embracing the values of tolerance, perseverance, and honesty,” Dr Thomas said.
He commended the institution’s workforce for their quality of service, emphasising that collective effort is required to ensure that graduates from the institution contribute positively to society.
In response, the Rector, Dr Lasisi, applauded the state Governor, Seyi Makinde, for establishing the agency at this crucial time and assured the agency of the institution’s support.