- Chairman of Lagos City Polytechnic decries neglect of polytechnic education, citing it as a cause of Nigeria’s socio-economic struggles and unemployment issues.
- Emphasis placed on the original purpose of polytechnics to produce skilled technical professionals and stimulate the economy, contrasting with a modern focus on white-collar jobs over practical skills.
- Keynote speaker advocates for a review of tertiary education, proposing measures such as enhancing vocational training, fostering industry partnerships, investing in entrepreneurial skills, and aligning curriculum with market demands.
The Chairman of the Governing Council, Lagos City Polytechnic, Mr Babatunde Odufuwa, decried the neglect of polytechnic education, stating it’s a major reason behind Nigeria’s socio-economic struggles, particularly unemployment.
Odufuwa, speaking at the institution’s 15th Convocation, highlighted the originally envisioned purpose of polytechnics: to produce skilled technical professionals who could address practical concerns and stimulate the economy.
He pointed out a concerning “shift in focus,” where education prioritizes white-collar jobs over practical skills development. While acknowledging the government’s support for private institutions, Odufuwa stressed the need to promote polytechnic education among Nigerian youth.
The keynote speaker, Mr Oluropo Dada, echoed similar concerns and called for a comprehensive review of the tertiary education system. He advocated for a strategic plan that aligns with global best practices and focuses on:
- Enhancing vocational and apprenticeship training
- Stronger partnerships between industries and educational institutions, allowing for internships and in-company placements
- Investment in fostering entrepreneurial skills
- A diversified curriculum that caters to current labor market needs
Dada emphasized that “Industry demands and standards should inform curriculum development.”
His recommendations further included:
- Prioritizing qualified lecturers and instructors
- A temporary halt on establishing new tertiary institutions to allow existing ones to solidify
- Encouraging public-private partnerships in education
- Collaborative efforts to raise awareness about the value of technical skills and vocational opportunities
The Convocation ceremony saw a total of 476 graduates – 261 receiving National Diplomas and 215 awarded Higher National Diplomas.
Lagos City Polytechnic’s leadership, including the Acting Rector, Deputy Rector (Academics), Acting Registrar, and Director of Corporate Affairs, were all present at the event.
