The Dean of the Faculty of Information and Communication Technology (FICT), Osun State Polytechnic (OSPOLY), Iree, Dr Akinrosoye Abiodun Idowu, has urged student leaders to uphold integrity, accountability and responsible representation as essential pillars for building strong and enduring institutions.
He gave the charge while delivering the keynote address at the Students’ Union Government (SUG) Legislative Summit 1.0 held at the institution’s Education Trust Fund (ETF) Building.
Speaking on the theme, “Understanding the Legislative Arm,” Dr Akinrosoye described the legislature as the foundation of every strong institution, stressing that its responsibilities extend beyond law-making to include accountability, effective representation and good governance.
Using the analogy of constructing a building, he said enduring institutions are built through honest debate, transparency and decisions taken in the collective interest, warning that institutions founded on weak principles would eventually collapse.
He urged student legislators to prioritise the interests of those they represent rather than seeking personal recognition, noting that effective representation requires listening to students’ concerns, communicating their needs and pursuing practical solutions to campus challenges.
According to him, the three core responsibilities of the legislative arm are representation, law-making and oversight, adding that these functions are vital for promoting transparency, protecting students’ interests and ensuring accountability in the executive arm of the union.
Dr Akinrosoye also cautioned student leaders against allowing emotions, personal interests or the pursuit of popularity to influence their decisions, urging them instead to be guided by fairness, justice and the long-term development of the institution.
The summit brought together the Rector, principal officers, members of staff, Students’ Union executives, student legislators and other stakeholders to strengthen legislative leadership and promote responsible student governance at the institution.
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