NAPS reject YABATECH’s conversion to University, calls for Polytechnic reforms

National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS) has strongly opposed the Federal Government’s plan to convert Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) into a university, arguing that the move would erode the core essence of polytechnic education in Nigeria.

This opposition comes in response to an announcement made by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, on Friday, confirming President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s approval of YABATECH’s conversion.

During a working visit to the institution, Alausa emphasized that the president did not hesitate in endorsing the proposal, citing the college’s academic strength, including over 200 doctorate degree holders among its faculty members.

“The rector mentioned earlier that the staff, students, and management of the college had been praying and fasting for this conversion. Somehow, you have kind of ambushed me,” Alausa said, acknowledging the school’s long-standing aspiration for university status.

However, in a statement released on Saturday in Kaduna, NAPS President Eshiofune Oghayan argued that the conversion contradicts the fundamental objectives of polytechnic education, which prioritizes practical and industrial-based learning over theoretical knowledge.

Oghayan warned that the transformation of polytechnics into universities would shift their focus away from hands-on training, thereby weakening their unique role in bridging the gap between education and industrial application.

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“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 industrialization and economic diversification,” Oghayan stated.

He further cited global examples where developed nations have continued to strengthen their technical education systems. “This move contradicts global best practices, where countries like Germany, China, Canada, and the United Kingdom have thriving technical and vocational education sectors that fuel their industrial economies,” he noted.

Rather than eliminating polytechnics, NAPS is advocating for the full implementation of the Higher National Diploma (HND) to Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) transition program.

This, they argue, would provide polytechnic graduates with internationally recognized degrees without compromising the technical essence of polytechnic education.

“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,” Oghayan added.

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In addition, NAPS proposed the transformation of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) into a Polytechnic Education Commission. According to the association, such a move would enhance policy implementation, ensure adequate funding, and provide clear career pathways for polytechnic graduates.

NAPS called on the Federal Government to engage in meaningful dialogue with relevant stakeholders, including the NBTE, in order to reposition polytechnic education as a catalyst for national development.

“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,” the statement read. “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 also made a direct appeal to President Tinubu, urging him 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,” NAPS stated.

As the debate continues, NAPS has vowed to mobilize polytechnic students nationwide to resist the proposed conversion. The association maintains that allowing the conversion to proceed would be a disservice to the future of technical education in Nigeria.

“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.

Established in 1947, YABATECH is one of Nigeria’s oldest and most respected polytechnics, producing thousands of highly skilled professionals across various industries, including engineering, technology, construction, and entrepreneurship.

As the controversy over its conversion to a university continues, the future of one of Nigeria’s most prestigious technical institutions hangs in the balance.