The management of Kwara State Polytechnic (Kwara Poly) has announced plans to introduce 13 new degree programmes for students at the institution.

In a statement released by Halimat Garba, the Polytechnic's spokesperson, it was revealed that the institution is partnering with the University of Ilorin (Unilorin) to enhance academic development. This collaboration forms part of the preparations for the upcoming launch of the 13 degree programmes, aimed at expanding educational opportunities and improving the quality of learning at Kwara Poly.

The statement in part read, “Kwara State Polytechnic recently welcomed a resource inspection team from the University of Ilorin.

“The visit aimed to assess the institution's facilities and resources as part of the affiliation requirements with Unilorin.”

The statement noted that Yahya Oyewole Imam, a Professor and Director, Centre for Affiliated Institutions, University of Ilorin who led the inspection team, commended Kwara Poly for seeking affiliation with the university.

He emphasised that the collaboration would strengthen academic ties between the two institutions.

Imam also conveyed the goodwill message of Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, Vice-Chancellor, Unilorin, expressing confidence in the partnership's potential for academic growth.

In his response, Abdul Jimoh Muhammed, rector of the Polytechnic, appreciated the team's visit and reaffirmed the institution's commitment to ensuring the programme's success.

He noted that the affiliation would help address university admission challenges in the state by creating more opportunities for young people to access quality education.

“The proposed degree programs, set to commence soon, will be run in affiliation with Unilorin, allowing students to earn university degrees in various disciplines,” he said.

The Rector, however, posited that the partnership marks a significant step toward expanding higher education opportunities in the state.