Sahara Reporters reports that Nigerian polytechnic students under the umbrella of the National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS), have rejected President Bola Tinubu’s approval for the proposed conversion of the Yaba College of Technology, Lagos in Lagos State into a university.
This was disclosed by NAPS President, Eshiofune Oghayan, in Kaduna, Kaduna state capital, on Saturday.
Oghayan emphasized that the conversion of YABATECH to a university would undermine the fundamental goals of polytechnic education.t
Recall that President Tinubu has given approval for the conversion of YABATECH to a university.
This was disclosed by the Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, on Friday.
Addressing the school management, staff, and students of the college during a working visit to the institution, Aluasa announced the President’s approval.
The minister said, “The rector said some minutes ago that the staff, students, and management of the college have been praying and fasting that it be converted to a university.
“Somehow, you have kind of ambushed me, but I must let you know that when I discussed the issue with President Bola Tinubu, he did not waste time in approving.”
“I am just waiting for the memo and other necessary protocols from the appropriate quarters.
“This school is a legacy, and with over 200 staff members holding doctorate degrees in various fields, it is more than ready and fit to become a university.
“All the credit about this should go to the President, who loves education and is concerned about giving the best to the youths who are our future leaders.”
The Minister added, “I commend you for pursuing excellence, and we need innovation and investments in technology for development. And I can assure you that the Federal Government would back you up.”
Aluasa noted that one of the reasons the Tinubu administration was focusing on technical and vocational education and adding entrepreneurship to it was to stem the “Japa Syndrome.”
However, in a twist of the joy that greeted the announcement, NAPS has kicked against the conversion.
The Students argued that converting polytechnics into universities would erode their unique role. And would also shift their focus toward theory-based learning rather than practical and industrial-based training.
According to Oghayan, instead of converting polytechnics into universities, the government should implement the conversion of the HND to B.Tech.
He, therefore, noted that this would enable polytechnic graduates to receive internationally recognised degrees. This, making them more competitive in the global job market.
“We reject the proposed conversion of YABATECH into a university. Polytechnic institutions like YABATECH play a crucial role in bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and industrial application. They emphasise hands-on experience, problem-solving, and innovation. Which are essential for Nigeria’s industrialization and economic diversification.
“This move contradicts global best practices. Where developed nations continue to strengthen and expand polytechnic education rather than eliminate it.
“Countries like Germany, China, Canada, and the United Kingdom have thriving technical and vocational education sectors that fuel their industrial economies.
“The HND to B.Tech transition is the most viable path to improving the status of polytechnic education while preserving its technical essence. This would ensure that polytechnic graduates receive the recognition they deserve. Without compromising the practical and industry-focused training that makes them valuable to the economy,” Oghayan said.
Moving forward, NAPS, proposed the conversion of the National Board for Technical Education into a Polytechnic Education Commission.
It added that this would elevate the status and authority of polytechnic education in national planning, and ensure adequate funding and policy implementation. And establish clear pathways for career progression and professional development for polytechnic graduates.
“We urge the Federal Government to engage with NAPS, NBTE, and other key stakeholders in a comprehensive reform agenda that will reposition polytechnic education as a driving force for economic development.
“We are ready to collaborate in ensuring policies that empower Nigeria’s workforce, drive industrialization, and secure a prosperous future for our nation,” the NAPS president said.
The Students, therefore, appealed to President Tinubu to reconsider the decision of converting YABATECH into a university.“
We passionately appeal to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to reconsider the decision to convert YABATECH into a university.
“Instead of eliminating polytechnics, Nigeria should focus on revamping and modernizing technical education. Which will help to produce the next generation of innovators, skilled professionals, and industrial leaders,” NAPS stated.
NAPS however vowed to mobilise polytechnic students across the country to resist the move.
“We will not fold our arms and watch as the government undermines the future of polytechnic education in Nigeria. We will mobilise our members to resist this move and ensure that the government prioritises the development of polytechnic education,” the NAPS president said.