The National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS) has rejected the proposed conversion of Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH), Lagos, into a university, arguing that the move would undermine the essence of polytechnic education.
Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, announced on Friday that President Bola Tinubu had approved the conversion of YABATECH into a university.
During a visit to the institution, Alausa highlighted that YABATECH, with over 200 doctorate-holding staff, was well-equipped for the transition.
However, NAPS President, Eshiofune Oghayan, in a statement released in Kaduna on Saturday, criticised the decision, emphasising that converting polytechnics into universities would erode their core mission of providing hands-on, industrial-based training.
“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 industrialisation and economic diversification,” Oghayan stated.
He stressed that rather than eliminating polytechnics, the government should fully implement the Higher National Diploma (HND) to Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) transition. According to NAPS, this would grant polytechnic graduates internationally recognised degrees, enhancing their competitiveness in the global job market.
Oghayan also pointed to global best practices, noting that developed nations like Germany, China, Canada and the UK have thriving technical education sectors that drive industrial growth.
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As an alternative, NAPS proposed the elevation of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) into a Polytechnic Education Commission. The statement said this would strengthen polytechnic education by ensuring better funding, policy implementation and clear career progression pathways for graduates.
The association urged the Federal Government to engage stakeholders in a comprehensive reform plan to enhance technical education. It also appealed to President Tinubu to reconsider the YABATECH conversion, advocating for modernisation instead of elimination.
“We will not fold our arms and watch as the government undermines the future of polytechnic education in Nigeria. We will mobilize our members to resist this move and ensure that the government prioritizes the development of polytechnic education,” Oghayan warned
