15th February, 2025
By Paul Dada
The National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS) has opposed the conversion of the Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH), Lagos, into a university.
NAPS in a statement, on Saturday, was reacting to the announcement by Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, that President Bola Tinubu had approved the conversion of YABATECH into a university.
In the statement signed by NAPS President, Eshiofune Oghayan, the association said the conversion would undermine polytechnic education.
“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,” the statement said.
Oghayan said rather than scarp polytechnics, the government should allow transition of the Higher National Diploma (HND) awarded by polytechnics to Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) transition. This, he said would foster the recognition of the qualifications of Nigerian polytechnic graduates internationally and enhance their competitiveness in the global job market.
He said this would make Nigeria be like like Germany, China, Canada and the UK that have thriving technical education sectors that drive industrial growth.
He also said the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) could be renamed the Polytechnic Education Commission in order to strengthen polytechnic education in the country.
He said, “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.”
