Ex-VC seeks repositioning of polytechnic education

Former Vice-Chancellor, University of Lagos, (UNILAG), Prof. Oluwatoyin Ogundipe, has appealed to the Federal Government to improve its funding to education and research, saying countries doing well are those adequately funding the sector.

Ogundipe, who made the call at the 39th convocation lecture of The Polytechnic, Ibadan, also called for the repositioning of the Nigerian polytechnic system to champion technological innovation for national development and economic growth.

The professor stated that though polytechnic was modelled to provide middle-level technical manpower, it doesn’t make its graduates inferior or less relevant.

Ogundipe reminded that the purpose of polytechnic training programme is to provide hands-on technical resources for small and medium scale enterprises (SMSEs), which could bring about improvement in the nation’s fortunes.
“It is on this note that I would like to emphasise the importance of polytechnic programmes as the best fit for the improvement of the nation’s economy.”

Ogundipe noted that polytechnic training is expected to serve as the backbone of the Nigerian economy, as it has very high potential of reducing unemployment through acquisition of hands-on training by the students in various areas of urgent needs.

According to the former VC, polytechnic training guarantees not only access to certificates, but also makes students financially independent.

“Ultimately, repositioning the polytechnic system to be at the forefront of technological innovation is crucial for national development and economic growth in the 21st century,” Ogundipe said.

He called for the modernisation of curricula, infrastructural development, fostering industry partnerships, and investing in faculty development.

Ogundipe, who is the Pro-Chancellor of Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun State, said Nigerian polytechnics can become key drivers of technological advancement and economic diversification.

This, he said, would not only enhance employability of graduates, but also contribute to Nigeria’s broader goals of reducing unemployment, improving productivity, and building a knowledge-driven economy.

He noted that the successful repositioning of polytechnics will require a concerted effort from the government, industry, and educational institutions.

Ogundipe stated that with the right policies, investment, and commitment, Nigerian polytechnics can play a central role in equipping the country’s youths.

He said by equipping graduates with skills needed to thrive in the digital economy, they can contribute significantly to Nigeria’s development in the 21st century.

The don charged polytechnics to evolve to meet the demands of the present times through innovative approach to learning and involvement in applied and demand driven research.