Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti has dismissed rumours that it was planning to downsize its workforce.
Vice Chancellor Prof. Edward Olanipekun made the clarification yesterday at a news conference to herald the 27th convocation of the institution.
He said there was no intention to retrench workers despite the paucity of funds, adding that instead of retrenching, the management would strengthen the workforce for better service delivery.
The VC said the allegation was the handiwork of mischief makers and individuals bent on inciting workers against the management for their self-interest.
”There is no iota of truth in the rumour. It was masterminded by irresponsible fifth columnists, who find delight in causing unnecessary confusion in the university community.
“The same persons behind this rumour are the ones that submitted memoranda in 2018, alleging that the university was over staffed. I call on the public to disregard the speculation.”
Olanipekun promised to initiate positive ideas that would improve moral and academic excellence of the university through partnership with relevant institutions and individuals.
He said the management with the support of Governor Biodun Oyebanji, the Governing Council, Alumni Association and other stakeholders have continued to restructure and re-engineer the university to make it a great citadel of learning and a paragon of excellence.
“As a university, we shall continue to cultivate strategic global partners and build networks and synergies that promote our contributions to sustainable global development. We will continue to partner the government as well as embrace symbiotic academic linkages with top-rated institutions of learning, both locally and internationally,” he said.
Olanipekun said 79 graduates will be conferred with first class degree, as the institution graduates 5,693 at its convocation.