Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) in Lagos has officially received approval from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to transition into a full-fledged university. This major development was confirmed by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, during his recent visit to the institution. The upgrade positions YABATECH as a key player in Nigeria’s higher education landscape, with a focus on technical and vocational training.
Official Announcement and Government Backing
President Tinubu’s endorsement of YABATECH’s transformation into a university underscores the government’s commitment to expanding access to quality tertiary education. The Minister of Education emphasized that the President granted the approval without hesitation, recognizing the institution’s academic strength and contributions to technical education in Nigeria. He further stated that the necessary administrative and legislative processes are already in motion to formalize the transition.
Strong Academic Workforce Strengthens Transition
One of the critical factors that influenced the upgrade is YABATECH’s robust academic workforce. According to Dr. Alausa, the institution boasts over 200 PhD holders across various disciplines, a key indicator of its readiness to operate as a university. The faculty’s expertise and experience will play a crucial role in ensuring a seamless transition while maintaining high academic standards.
Rector’s Response: A New Era for Technical Education
Dr. Ibrahim Abdul, the Rector of YABATECH, expressed profound gratitude for the federal government’s decision. He highlighted the institution’s longstanding reputation in technical and vocational education, stating that the upgrade will enable YABATECH to contribute more significantly to national development. The Rector emphasized that the university will prioritize research-driven solutions to address real-world challenges in engineering, technology, and applied sciences.
Governing Council’s Call for Support
Prof. Funso Afolabi, Chairman of YABATECH’s Governing Council, lauded the government’s decision and urged further federal support to facilitate a smooth transition. He called for increased funding, infrastructure development, and policy support to enable the institution to meet global university standards.
Implications of the Upgrade
The transformation of YABATECH into a university is expected to bring several benefits, including:
- Expanded academic programs beyond National and Higher National Diplomas (ND and HND) to full-degree courses.
- Increased research opportunities in science, technology, and innovation.
- Enhanced global recognition, attracting both local and international students.
- Stronger industry partnerships for practical, hands-on training.
The federal government’s approval of YABATECH’s upgrade to a university signals a significant milestone in Nigeria’s educational advancement. With a strong academic workforce, a commitment to practical learning, and government support, YABATECH is set to become a premier institution for technical and vocational education in the country. Stakeholders eagerly anticipate the next steps in this transformative journey.
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