The National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS) has firmly rejected the proposed conversion of Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH), Lagos, into a university, describing the decision as detrimental to the core mission of polytechnic education in Nigeria.
The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, announced on Friday that President Bola Tinubu had approved the conversion of YABATECH into a university. Speaking during a visit to the institution, Dr. Alausa emphasized that the college, with its over 200 doctorate-holding staff, possesses the capacity to transition into a university.
However, in a statement released in Kaduna on Saturday, NAPS President, Eshiofune Oghayan, criticized the move, warning that it could erode the polytechnic system’s focus on practical, industry-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 emphasize hands-on experience, problem-solving, and innovation, which are essential for Nigeria’s industrialisation and economic diversification,” Oghayan stated.
He stressed that rather than converting polytechnics into universities, the government should fully implement the transition of Higher National Diploma (HND) holders to Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) degrees. According to NAPS, this reform would give polytechnic graduates internationally recognized qualifications, improving their competitiveness in the global job market.
Oghayan further highlighted the importance of technical education in developed countries like Germany, China, Canada, and the United Kingdom, where robust polytechnic systems significantly contribute to industrial growth.
As an alternative, NAPS proposed the elevation of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) into a Polytechnic Education Commission. The association believes that such a step would enhance polytechnic education through better funding, policy implementation, and clearer career progression pathways for graduates.
“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.
NAPS called on the Federal Government to engage with stakeholders to develop a comprehensive reform plan aimed at modernizing and strengthening polytechnic education in the country. The association also appealed to President Tinubu to reconsider the YABATECH conversion, advocating for modernisation instead of elimination.
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