The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has commended the reforms at the Federal Polytechnic, Kaltungo, Gombe State, citing improved academic standards, accreditation of courses and the introduction of programmes targeting various sectors of national development.

The North East (Zone E) President of the association, Mu’azu Hina, praised the Rector of the institution, Dr. Babale Ibrahim Gashua, for what he described as strategic and reform-driven leadership that has significantly elevated the polytechnic’s standards.

He noted that the transformation recorded under the leadership of Dr. Gashua aligns with the policy direction of the Federal Ministry of Education, particularly in advancing technical and vocational education, strengthening quality assurance, improving infrastructure and promoting globally competitive skills acquisition.

The association also acknowledged the critical roles of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) and the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) in supporting institutional development through curriculum standards, accreditation processes, staff training and infrastructural renewal.

According to NANS, these interventions have collectively contributed to the improved academic and administrative standing of the polytechnic.

“NANS observes that these reforms are consistent with Nigeria’s broader national development agenda, including human capital development, youth empowerment, economic diversification, industrial growth, and sustainable national progress,” the statement said.

Hina further emphasised the need for enhanced strategic interventions and innovative funding support from key national development institutions, particularly the North East Development Commission (NEDC) and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

He stated that sustained investment in infrastructure, research, technology and capacity building remains critical to consolidating the gains recorded from reforms in polytechnics across the country.

“Strengthened collaboration between the Federal Ministry of Education, TETFund, NBTE and other relevant agencies remains essential to achieving the Federal Government’s objectives on regional stabilisation, skills development and global competitiveness of Nigeria’s tertiary education sector,” he said.