The National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS) has strongly opposed the proposed conversion of the Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) in Lagos into a university, following the announcement made by the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, on Friday.
Alausa revealed that President Bola Tinubu had approved the conversion, citing the institution’s legacy status, its high number of staff members holding doctorate degrees, and its longstanding reputation as a significant academic institution.
In his statement, the minister mentioned that YABATECH had the full support of its staff, students, and management, who had long advocated for the conversion. However, NAPS President, Eshiofune Oghayan, expressed the association’s opposition to the decision, arguing that such a move would undermine the core objectives of polytechnic education.
Oghayan explained that converting polytechnics into universities would dilute their distinct role, which focuses on providing practical, industry-relevant education, and shift the focus toward theory-based learning. He emphasized that polytechnics, such as YABATECH, play a vital role in bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed in industries, fostering hands-on experience, problem-solving abilities, and innovation key drivers for Nigeria’s industrialization and economic diversification.
Instead of converting polytechnics into universities, NAPS advocates for the full implementation of the Higher National Diploma (HND) to Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) transition. This would, according to NAPS, provide polytechnic graduates with internationally recognized degrees, enhancing their competitiveness in the global job market while preserving the practical and technical essence of 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,” said Oghayan. “This move contradicts global best practices, where developed nations continue to strengthen and expand polytechnic education, such as in Germany, China, Canada, and the United Kingdom.”
Furthermore, NAPS proposed the conversion of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) into a Polytechnic Education Commission. This move would elevate polytechnic education’s status and authority in national planning, ensure adequate funding and policy implementation, and create clear career progression and professional development pathways for polytechnic graduates.
NAPS also called on the Nigerian government to engage with the association, the NBTE, and other relevant stakeholders in a comprehensive reform agenda to revamp and modernize polytechnic education in Nigeria, aiming to produce the next generation of skilled professionals, innovators, and industrial leaders.
The association appealed directly to President Tinubu, urging him to reconsider the decision to convert YABATECH into a university, and to focus on strengthening and modernizing technical education in Nigeria.
“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,” Oghayan pleaded.
Established in 1947, YABATECH is one of Nigeria’s oldest and most prestigious polytechnics, with a rich history of producing skilled professionals in engineering, technology, construction, and entrepreneurship. As the debate continues, NAPS has vowed to mobilize polytechnic students across the country to resist the move and ensure that the government prioritizes the development of polytechnic education.
“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,” Oghayan concluded.
