Face the reality of these present times - Oyetola challenged Nigerian Universities.

Governor Gboyega Oyetola of the state of Osun says it is high time the universities in Nigeria woke up from their slumber and develop a capacity to meet the world class standard in order to overcome the challenges of these present times

He stated that this wake up call  becomes imperative  in order to bring a desired development to the country and make the Nigerian Universities' impact felt in the present competitive world.

Governor Oyetola  made the call in Osogbo on Thursday at the maiden edition of Tunde Ponle Annual lecture under the auspices of Osun State University Global Affairs and Sustainable Development Institute held at the University main Campus which was delivered by the Speaker of the Federal House Representatives Rt. Hon Femi Gbajabiamila.

The Governor who was represented by his Deputy Mr Benedict Alabi said it is very disheartening that universities in the country are still far from the bottom of the 21st century University ladder which he described as national disgrace.

The Governor while describing it as very apt, the topic of the lecture which was,  "Building a truly 21st Century University: A task beyond Government", said this is a challenge to all the stakeholders of the University education in Nigeria

He then admonished all the stakeholders to truly play their roles adequately to make the Universities in the country competitive in these challenging times.

He stated that this  requires concerted efforts by the government, the universities' proprietors,  the alumni, corporate organisations, staff and students as well as collaboration with recognised Universities in the world.

"As a nation, we must all resolve to build institutions that will compete with their peers globally and deliver the development that we desire.