The National Association of Polytechnic Students has opposed the proposed conversion of the Yaba College of Technology, Lagos into a university.
It was earlier reported that the Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, announced on Friday that President Bola Tinubu approved the conversion of the college to a university.
The minister had during a working visit to the institution on Friday, disclosed that Tinubu was not hesitant to approve the proposal to convert the institution into a university, adding that YABATECH was a legacy school fit for conversion because it had over 200 staff members holding doctorate degrees in various fields.
He said, “The rector said some minutes ago that the staff, students, and management of the college had been praying and fasting that it be converted to a university. Somehow, you have kind of ambushed me.”
However, a statement released by NAPS President, Eshiofune Oghayan, in Kaduna on Saturday, emphasised that the conversion would undermine the fundamental goals of polytechnic education.
Oghayan argued that converting polytechnics into universities would erode their unique role and shift their focus toward theory-based learning rather than practical and industrial-based training.
Instead of converting polytechnics into universities, he advocated for the full implementation of the HND to B.Tech transition.
This, according to the association, would enable polytechnic graduates to receive internationally recognised degrees, making them more competitive in the global job market.
He said, “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 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.”
The association 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.
“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.
NAPS also appealed to Tinubu to reconsider the decision to convert 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 to produce the next generation of innovators, skilled professionals, and industrial leaders,” the association pleaded.
YABATECH, established in 1947, is one of Nigeria’s oldest and most prestigious polytechnics. It has produced thousands of highly skilled professionals who have contributed immensely to various industries, including engineering, technology, construction, and entrepreneurship.
As the debate over the proposed conversion continues, NAPS has vowed to mobilize 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 mobilize our members to resist this move and ensure that the government prioritizes the development of polytechnic education,” NAPS President warned.
