From Our Correspondent
Ibadan, Feb. 16, ’25 (TNZ) The immediate past Vice Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Prof. Oluwatoyin Ogundipe has underscored the importance of polytechnic programmes for the upgrade of the nation’s economy.
TheNewsZenith reports that Ogundipe made the remarks while delivering the 39th Convocation Lecture of The Ibadan Polytechnic recently in Ibadan.
He described polytechnic education as the best fit for the upgrade of the nation’s economy.
Regretable, he said, this had been out of sync for a long time.
According to him, the inspiration of the founding fathers of the polytechnics, Ibadan Polytechnics inclusive, is to provide manpower that would bridge the gap in the training acquired from the universities.
He said the university was not developed to prepare skilful graduates for the practical hands-on venture, needed for industrial implementation.
TheNewsZenith reports that the theme of the lecture is: “Emerging Technology Advancement, National Development, and Growth in the 21st Century; Repositioning Nigerian Polytechnics”.
Ogundipe lamented that not giving adequate attention to the crucial roles of polytechnic education has been a major setback to the much-desired economic growth of the country.
The don noted that without the prosperity of the SMSEs in the country’s economic ecosystem, the nation could find it difficult to enjoy prosperity built on non-oil trades.
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Polytechnic training, he explained, is expected to serve as the backbone of the country’s economy.
“Nigeria has a lot to gain from encouraging the polytechnics because it has high potential to reduce unemployment through the acquisition of hands-on training in areas of urgent needs.
“This means the students can earn a living for themselves while still in school.
“Thus, polytechnic training guarantees not only access to certificates but also make the students financially independent,” TheNewsZenith quotes Ogundipe as saying.
According to him, repositioning polytechnic system at the forefront of technological innovation “is crucial for national development and economic growth”
“Nigerian polytechnics can become key drivers of technological advancement and economic diversification.
“This is possible by modernising curricula, improving infrastructure, fostering industry partnerships and investing in faculty development,
“It would not only enhance the employability of graduates but also contribute to Nigeria’s broader goals of reducing unemployment and improving productivity,” TheNewsZenith quotes him as saying.
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