Federal College of Education Special Oyo

FCES OYO COMMENCES 2026 STAFF HEALTH WEEK.

The Federal College of Education (Special), Oyo, on Monday, 4th May, 2026, commenced its 2026 Staff Health Week, a programme designed to promote the physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing of members of staff. The initiative, organized as part of the College Management’s commitment to staff welfare, also aims to create awareness on healthy living, preventive healthcare, workplace wellness, and work-life balance.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Provost, Dr. Ademola Rauf Salami, emphasized the importance of good health, describing it as a priceless asset often undervalued until health challenges arise. According to the Provost, the programme was introduced to ensure that members of staff maintain healthy living standards, noting that a healthy workforce remains essential for improved productivity and institutional growth.

Dr. Salami assured staff that the Health Week initiative would be sustained, while efforts would continue toward strengthening first-aid services within the College. He further expressed optimism that medical check-ups and health screening exercises would become a regular annual programme, with the possibility of organizing them twice yearly in the future.

The Provost also disclosed that the College Management has taken significant steps to reposition the College Health Centre, which is now an NHIS approved healthcare facility. He added that medications and drugs supplied at the centre are sourced from credible manufacturers and distributors, while qualified healthcare professionals have been engaged to provide quality medical services. He therefore encouraged members of staff to take full advantage of the medical screening and health check-up opportunities provided during the week-long programme, announcing that eyeglasses would be distributed free of charge to staff members during the exercise.

Highlights of the event included health talks delivered by the Acting College Medical Director, Dr. A. S. Kadejo, who spoke on the management of prostate conditions, and the Director of Nursing Science, Mrs. H. A. Afolabi, who addressed the management of fibroid conditions among women.

The Registrar, Mr. J. A. Araoye, in his closing remarks urged staff members to prioritize their health by participating in the screening exercise, stressing that early detection remains crucial in effective health management and treatment. He reiterated Management’s commitment to the wellbeing of staff and encouraged all employees to make themselves available for the various health services provided during the programme.

2026 WORKERS’ DAY MESSAGE

On behalf of the Management, I extend warm greetings and heartfelt congratulations to our esteemed Staff and Union Leaders on the occasion of this year’s Workers’ Day.

Workers’ Day offers us a meaningful opportunity to recognize and celebrate the dignity of labour, the value of commitment, and the indispensable role you play in advancing the vision and mission of our great College. It is also a moment to reflect on the shared responsibilities that bind us together as partners in progress.

Management stands in solidarity with all staff and our various union leaderships in your legitimate pursuits for improved welfare, professional growth, and a better working environment. Your voices, when constructively engaged, remain vital in strengthening our institution and ensuring that our collective aspirations are realized.

We deeply appreciate your resilience, cooperation, and understanding, particularly in the face of evolving challenges within the education sector. Your gallant contributions, dedication to duty, and unwavering commitment to excellence have continued to drive the development and transformation of SPED into a centre of distinction.

As Management, we reaffirm our commitment to staff welfare and to fostering a more conducive, inclusive, and supportive working environment for all. We shall continue to engage constructively with staff unions and stakeholders, while exploring sustainable strategies to enhance productivity, motivation, and institutional growth.

Let us, therefore, continue to work together in unity, mutual respect, and shared purpose, as we build a stronger and more prosperous College for the benefit of our students, community, and nation at large.
Once again, happy May Day 2026, and thank you for your invaluable service.

Yours sincerely,
Dr. Ademola Rauf Salami,
Provost, FCES Oyo.

FCE(S) OYO PROVOST EMERGES NATIONAL CHAIRMAN, COMMITTEE OF PROVOSTS, COLLEGES OF EDUCATION IN NIGERIA

The Committee of Provosts of Colleges of Education in Nigeria has elected Dr. Ademola Rauf Salami as its National Chairman.

The election, which took place on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, in Abuja, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), saw Dr. Salami emerge unopposed to lead the prestigious body of Chief Executives of Colleges of Education in Nigeria.

His emergence was widely welcomed by members of the Committee and comes as no surprise, given his outstanding administrative competence, academic excellence, and remarkable leadership pedigree, all of which position him suitably for the role.

Since his appointment as Provost, Dr. Salami has spearheaded several landmark initiatives that have significantly transformed the College, elevating its status to an enviable position among its peers in the education sector.

The College community has expressed immense pride and joy at his emergence, describing him as a seasoned and distinguished special educator. We have confidence in his capacity to deliver exceptional leadership at the national level, as evidenced by the visible progress and development recorded under his stewardship.

Dr. Salami’s election is widely regarded as a well-deserved recognition of his dedication, vision, and contributions to the advancement of special education in Nigeria.

Congratulations to a true icon of special education in Nigeria.

FEDERAL CHARACTER COMMISSIONS PAYS WORKING VISIT TO THE COLLEGE

The Federal Character Commissioner representing Oyo State, Hon. Abass Aleshinloye, has paid a working visit to the Federal College of Education (Special), Oyo, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen collaboration and ensure compliance with federal character principles across public institutions.

The Commissioner was accompanied by the Oyo State Director of the Commission. In his remarks, Hon. Aleshinloye underscored the significance of the visit, reiterating the Commission’s commitment to effective oversight and engagement at all levels. He expressed appreciation for the warm and cordial reception accorded to him and his team by the College community, commending the management for their hospitality and professionalism. He noted that such cooperation fosters stronger institutional relationships.

He further assured the College leadership of the Commission’s continued support, particularly in facilitating seamless and transparent processes in all future engagements requiring federal character input. According to him, the Commission remains steadfast in promoting equity, fairness, and national unity through strict adherence to federal character guidelines in recruitment, appointments, and other institutional processes.

In his welcome address, the Provost of the College, Dr. A. R. Salami, expressed profound appreciation for the visit, describing it as a demonstration of goodwill and institutional partnership. He acknowledged the “brotherly hand of fellowship” extended to the College and reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to national policies.

The Provost further emphasized that the College has consistently remained responsive to the mandate of the Federal Character principle, ensuring inclusiveness and fairness in its operations. He reiterated the management’s readiness to continue working closely with the Commission to sustain transparency and compliance in all administrative processes.

The Commissioner’s entourage included the Director of the Federal Character Commission, Oyo State, Mr. Babanumi Muyiwa; the Deputy Director, Mrs. Toun Akilotan; the Special Assistant on Media, Oladipupo Adegoke; Hon. Babatunde Abiodun; Hon. Adeniyi Samuel; Hon. Sangokunle Demola; and Hon. Adesokan.

EASTER MESSAGE TO STAFF

All praises to God Almighty for the privilege of another Easter season. Management felicitates staff at this period and prays that the sacrifice of Jesus Christ and all the benefits of the season be multiplied to you all. As we reflect on Christ's example of humility, selfless love and service, compassion and servant-leadership, may we receive grace to love and serve one another and our fellow men more acceptably. May God bless you and family this Easter season and fill our lives and nation with peace, tranquility, security and greater progress. ‘A ku odun ajinde’, ‘beatus pascha‘, ‘joyeuses Pâques‘, Best wishes and Happy Easter!

Dr. Ademola Rauf Salami,
Provost.

VC AND RECTOR PAY COURTESY VISIT TO THE PROVOST AS SSUCOEN HOLDS INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY CELEBRATION

Ahead of the International Women's Day celebration held at the College on Monday, 30th March 2026, the Vice-Chancellor, Ajayi Crowther University, Prof. Ebunoluwa Olufemi Oduwole, who served as the Guest Speaker, and the Rector, Federal School of Surveying, Oyo, Dr. Nihinlola Olayinka Dosumu, who chaired the occasion, alongside other management members of Ajayi Crowther University, paid a courtesy visit to the Provost in his office. The courtesy visit was led by the Chairman, Senior Staff Union in Colleges of Education, Nigeria (SSUCOEN), FCE (Special) Oyo Chapter, Comrade Gani Odukale, and other executives of the Union.

While welcoming the guests to the College, the Provost, Dr. Ademola Rauf Salami, highlighted the uniqueness of the institution, noting that the College is one of its kind in Sub-Saharan Africa as the only institution saddled with the responsibility of training students with special needs, with the highest concentration of persons with special needs. He appreciated the dignitaries for honouring the programme organised by SSUCOEN. He further emphasized the vital role of women in society, describing their contributions as valuable to human existence. He also called for greater synergy and collaboration with the College.

In her remarks, the Vice-Chancellor, Ajayi Crowther University, Prof. Ebunoluwa Olufemi Oduwole, sympathised with the College over the demise of an Assistant Deputy Registrar, Mr. Moses Abiodun Onilude, and the damage caused to College facilities by the heavy downpour over the weekend.

In a colourful celebration to commemorate the 2026 International Women's Day, the theme for this year's event was "Rights, Justice and Actions for Women's Safety at the Workplace."

In his address, the Chairman, SSUCOEN FCE (Special) Oyo Chapter, Comrade Gani Odukale, welcomed participants to the occasion. He noted that the cooperation among the executives made the programme a reality. He also appreciated members of the Union for their resilience despite the biting economic situation. He commended the roles women play in the home, family, society, and the nation, noting that mothers are natural nurturers who mould and shape the nation. He concluded by appreciating the invited dignitaries, whom he described as women of valour, urging participants to learn and take home valuable lessons from the conference.

The Chairperson of the occasion, Dr. Nihinlola Olayinka Dosumu, emphasized the importance of celebrating women, noting that the day is dedicated to recognizing and celebrating women's achievements, as acknowledged by the United Nations. She advocated gender equality and empowerment of women and the girl child, after which she formally declared the ceremony open.

The Registrar of the College, Mr. J.A. Araoye, in his remarks congratulated SSUCOEN and women, particularly on the 2026 International Women's Day celebration. He noted that the gathering demonstrated that women can attain any position they desire, as evidenced by the calibre of women present at the event. He further stated that the College has always championed equality and fairness in the workplace by providing equal opportunities for women to excel.

The SSUCOEN Women Leader, Comrade Folarin Grace Oyeteju, noted that March 8th every year is dedicated to celebrating the achievements, challenges, and struggles of women while charting a way forward. She emphasized the need to celebrate the landmark achievements of women in society, noting that despite challenges, women continue to rise and make meaningful impacts globally. She called for women to be given equal rights and opportunities to operate and excel in all spheres.

Delivering her lecture, the Guest Speaker, Prof. Ebunoluwa Olufemi Oduwole, emphasized that decency at the workplace promotes progress and economic growth for women. She described a safe workplace as one where all genders feel free to express themselves, take initiatives, and contribute without fear of intimidation or rejection, thereby boosting productivity. She further noted that women remain underrepresented in Nigerian politics, stressing that adequate representation would enable the formulation of institutional policies that support women's advancement. She charged trade unions across all sectors to champion women's causes and make provisions for them at the national level, as demonstrated by SSUCOEN through the establishment of the Women Leader position, which promotes inclusive leadership.

A major highlight of the event was the recognition and presentation of an award to Senator (Dr.) Monsurat Olajumoke Sunmonu as the 2026 International Woman of the Year, in recognition of her outstanding contributions and influence. Senator Sunmonu, the first female Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly and former representative of Oyo Central Senatorial District, appreciated SSUCOEN for the honour. She stated that her call to service was driven by purpose and service to humanity. She charged women to remain firm, fair, and good role models while supporting one another. She emphasized that with unity, women can attain any height.

Notable dignitaries at the event included the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Afolake Olanbiwonninu; Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Olukayode Binuyo; the University Librarian, Dr. Bosede Ajiboye; and the Registrar, Emmanuel Alayande University of Education, Mrs. Olubunmi Asunmo, who was represented.

Also present were notable businesswoman, Mrs. Adefunke Adeniran (Mama Tayo Cooler); Deputy Registrar, Personal Affairs Division, Mr. Lere Oladapo; Deputy Registrar, Admissions and Academic Board, Mr. Timothy Balogun; alongside other invited guests and members of the College community.

EID AL - FITRI MESSAGE

As we mark the end of the Ramadan and celebrate Eid al-Fitr, on behalf of Management, I extend warm greetings and heartfelt congratulations to all our Muslim staff.

For the privilege of life to witness another celebration, we glorify the Almighty God. This season reminds us of the values of sacrifice, discipline, repentance, compassion, and generosity, virtues that are essential not only in our personal lives but also in our shared commitment to excellence in our Great SPED.

May the lessons of Ramadan continue to inspire us toward greater unity, peace, and dedication to service. May this celebration bring renewed strength, joy, and abundant blessings to you and your families. And may Nigeria experience new wave of peace, tranquility and prosperity by the grace of God.

Wishing you all a peaceful and joyful Eid al-Fitr.

Eid Mubarak!

Dr. Ademola Rauf Salami,
Provost, FCE(S), Oyo.

COEASU FCE (SPECIAL), OYO CHAPTER PRESENTS CASH GIFT TO DR. ALABEDE ON RETIREMENT.

The Academic Staff of the Federal College of Education (Special), Oyo, under the aegis of the Colleges of Education Academic Staff Union (COEASU), has introduced a financial support scheme for members of the Union upon retirement from the College.

At the presentation programme, held on Thursday, 12 March 2026, the Chapter Chairman, Comrade Wale Adeleke, stated that the initiative was borne out of the desire to celebrate and reward members who have served both the Union and the College meritoriously. He explained that some Colleges of Education already operate similar schemes, which inspired the executives to present the proposal to Congress for approval.

He expressed appreciation to members for endorsing the initiative and noted that the cash donation would provide temporary relief to retirees pending the commencement of their pension. He congratulated Dr. Kasali O. Alabede as the pioneer beneficiary and wished him a fulfilling retirement.

The Provost, Dr. Ademola Rauf Salami, who was represented by the Chairman, Committee of Deans, Dr. A. A. Adejumobi, expressed delight at witnessing what he described as a humane initiative. He observed that the programme serves as a reminder that everyone will eventually retire and should therefore strive to leave behind a worthy legacy. He also charged the COEASU executives to sustain the initiative beyond their tenure.

Dr. Kasali O. Alabede joined the College in 2002 as a Computer Analyst and was later converted to the Computer Science Department in 2005. He rose to the rank of Chief Lecturer in 2023 and earned his PhD in Computer Science in the same year.

He previously served as Head of Department (Computer Science) from 2019 to 2021 and as Deputy Director of the Internal Quality Assurance Control (IQAC). He has over 25 scholarly publications to his credit.
In his response, Dr. Alabede expressed heartfelt appreciation to the executives and the entire COEASU membership for the initiative. He noted that being the first beneficiary made the occasion particularly special and prayed for a good end for all.

The Chairperson of the Chief Lecturers’ Forum, Dr. Ketim Quadri, emphasized the importance of investing in human capital as a means of motivation. She remarked that it is discouraging for staff to retire after many years of service without recognition, adding that even primary and secondary school teachers often celebrate their retirees more. She commended the COEASU executives and members for choosing to honour their senior colleagues, stating that the gesture would inspire younger lecturers to contribute meaningfully to the system.

While presenting the cheque, the Chairman of the COEASU Retirement Committee, Dr. O. Ojebisi, stated that the donation was from the entire academic staff of the College. Prayers were subsequently offered for the retiree by the College Chief Imam, Dr. W. A. Jumah.

SOUTHWEST ZONE D NANS VISITS THE PROVOST.

The National Association of Nigerian Students, (NANS) Southwest Zone D paid a courtesy to the Provost at the Provost office Board room. The visit was accompanied by the SUG President, Comrade Lawal Seleem Omogbolahan and his team, together with the Dean of Students, Dr. Giwa Babatunde and Student Affairs Officer, Mr. Wole Gbadegesin.

While welcoming NANS to the College, the Provost, Dr. A R. Salami reminded them that he was once like them as a student, then became a staff member before assuming office as the Provost, pointing that education was the hallmark of what got him this position, advising then that their education comes first before unionism. Your education is primary while unionism is secondary. He emphasized that social revelation is about Justin which has been his guiding principle since he assumed office as the Provost.

Dr. Salami seized the opportunity to charge NANS to make cases for people with special needs at the National level that a position should be available that people with special needs will occupy, creating room for inclusivity.

NANS Southwest Zone D, Deputy Coordinator, Com. Ridwan Ademola Adejoke in his speech said NANS has been happy with the reports coming from the College because the Provost has been friendly and accommodating to students going by how he lifted the proscription of student unionism and the swift conduct of the SUG election. He also appreciated the Provost for the renovation of the student hostels and the two huge televisions in the common room of the male and female hostels with the satellite cable provided at the hostels. These timely interventions and more from the Provost have made the living conditions of the students enjoyable.
He prayed and wished him well while noting that they will always come back for more as he remains the father for all students in the College.