President Bola Tinubu has approved the conversion of Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) into a university. This development was confirmed by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, during a visit to the institution. According to Alausa, YABATECH is well-positioned for university status, with over 200 staff members holding doctorate degrees.
The minister emphasized the importance of innovation, technology, and vocational skills in driving national progress. He urged YABATECH to prioritize these areas in its curriculum, citing global best practices. Alausa also encouraged the institution to collaborate with industries to commercialize its research products.
However, not everyone is pleased with this development. The National Association of Polytechnic Students has refuted the proposal, arguing that it would undermine the fundamental goals of polytechnic education. They believe that converting polytechnics into universities would eradicate their unique role and focus on theory-based learning rather than practical and industrial-based training.
The bill outlining YABATECH’s change in status and its new name is expected to be sent to the National Assembly for passage and presidential assent.
Source: Nairametrics
