The National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS) opposes YABATECH’s conversion to a university, urging the government to strengthen polytechnic education instead and warning of nationwide resistance if the decision stands.
The National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS) has strongly opposed the approved conversion of Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) into a university, arguing that it undermines the core purpose of polytechnic education in Nigeria.
Following the announcement by Minister of Education Dr. Tunji Alausa that President Bola Tinubu had approved the upgrade of the 77-year-old institution, NAPS President Eshiofune Oghayan released a statement condemning the move. He stressed that polytechnics play a crucial role in providing hands-on, industry-focused training essential for Nigeria’s economic growth and industrialisation.
Citing global examples from Germany, China, Canada, and the UK, Oghayan argued that advanced nations strengthen their technical and vocational education rather than phase it out. Instead of converting polytechnics into universities, NAPS called for the full implementation of the Higher National Diploma (HND) to Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) transition, ensuring polytechnic graduates receive globally recognized degrees while maintaining their technical expertise.
The association also proposed transforming the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) into a Polytechnic Education Commission to enhance funding, career progression, and the overall status of polytechnic education. NAPS urged the Federal Government to engage with key stakeholders to reform and modernize technical education rather than eliminate polytechnics.
Calling on President Tinubu to reconsider the decision, NAPS warned that it would mobilize students nationwide to resist the conversion if necessary, vowing to defend the future of polytechnic education in Nigeria.
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