- Safiu Kehinde
The National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS) has rejected the conversion of Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) into a university.
Reacting to President Bola Tinubu’s approval of the conversion, the association’s President, Eshiofune Oghayan, in a statement issued at Kaduna on Saturday, warned that the conversion would undermine the fundamental goals of polytechnic education.
Ogahayan held that YABATECH plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and industrial application.
The conversion, according to him contradicted global practice where developed nations continued to strengthen their polytechnic education rather than eliminating it.
“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.
“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 NAPS President wrote.
Ogahayan proposed the transition of the Higher National Diploma certification to Bachelor of Technology (B. Tech) degree.
He also proposed the conversion of the National Board for Technical Education into a Polytechnic Education Commission.
This, according to NAPS, would elevate the status and authority of polytechnic education in national planning, ensure adequate funding and policy implementation, and establish clear pathways for career progression and professional development for polytechnic graduates.
“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.
“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 association stated.
While pleading with Tinubu to revamp and modernize technical education to produce the next generation of innovators, skilled professionals, and industrial leaders, NAPS vowed to mobilize polytechnic students across the country to resist the conversion of YABATECH.
“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,” NAPS President warned.