The Kwara State Government has inaugurated a committee tasked with developing a blueprint for the harmonious co-existence of the Kwara State College of Education (COED) and the Kwara State University of Education (KWASUED), Ilorin.

The committee has been mandated to recommend strategies that will foster smooth collaboration, resource sharing, and administrative synergy between the two institutions.

The inauguration took place yesterday at the Ministry of Tertiary Education's Conference Hall and was presided over by the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Hajia Sa'adatu Modibbo Kawu.

The committee is chaired by Alhaji AbdulRahman Tunde Sidiq, a seasoned administrator and former Permanent Secretary in the state service.

Other members include:

Prof. Umar Gunu, Council Member, KWASUED
Hon. Yakubu Mohammed, Registrar, COED
Mall. Mohammed Jimada Jubril, Registrar, KWASUED
Dr. Akanbi Lawal, Librarian, KWASUED
Alhaja Kuburat Kazeem, Council Member, KWASUED
Barr. Jubril Idris, Ministry of Justice

The committee is expected to submit its findings and recommendations within a stipulated timeframe to guide policy direction and institutional integration.

Others are: Olamidayo Olawuyi, Assistant Chief Administrative Officer, SSG's Office; Mr. Yahaya Ndagi, Chairman of COEASU; Mall. Musa Mustapha, Chairman of SSUCOEN; Dr. Ayorinde, Director of Academic Planning, COED; Dr. (Mrs) Oluwatoyin Sanusi, Chairperson of Deans of Colleges, COED; and Mall. Afolabi Hussein, representative of the Ministry, who will serve as the Secretary of the committee.

In her remarks, Hajia Sa'adatu Modibbo Kawu thanked members of the committee for accepting to serve the State, noting that they were carefully selected based on their reputation and track records.

She explained that the committee was constituted with members drawn from both institutions to ensure inclusiveness in arriving at decisions that will serve the best interest of all stakeholders.

She emphasized that for now, KWASUED will continue to operate from the premises of the College of Education, Ilorin, until the State government provides a permanent site for the new University.

She charged the committee to ensure that the academic programmes of both institutions do not conflict or negatively affect one another.

The Commissioner also commended Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his efforts on the development of education in Kwara State. She noted that the establishment of KWASUED and the strategic reforms in the tertiary education sector reflect the Governor's vision to make the State a hub of academic excellence, while also expanding opportunities for students and educators.

In his acceptance speech, the committee Chairman, Alhaji AbdulRahman Tunde Sidiq, expressed appreciation to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for approving their appointment and to the Commissioner for facilitating the process.

He described the assignment as a call to service, stressing that the task of recommending a strategic model for the co-existence of the two institutions carries far-reaching implications for the future of tertiary education in Kwara State.

"We fully understand the weight of the terms of reference given to us. On behalf of my team, I assure you that we shall approach this assignment with utmost dedication, objectivity, and a commitment to excellence.

"We will listen, consult widely, and ensure that our recommendations are practical, forward-looking, and in line with the vision of the Kwara State Government for a stronger and more integrated education system," he said.

The committee has three weeks to submit its report. Its terms of reference include recommending effective strategies for facility sharing and role delineation; identifying potential challenges that may arise during the transitional phase; and proposing sustainable mitigation measures to ensure a smooth and mutually beneficial co-existence.