Rector Warns FG Against Scrapping Polytechnic Education, Says It Powers Nigeria’s Technological Growth

The Acting Rector of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo (RUGIPO), Ondo State, Dr. Olorunwa Adegun, has called on the Federal Government to preserve and strengthen polytechnic education in Nigeria, emphasizing that it remains the engine room for technological innovation and national development.

Speaking ahead of the institution’s forthcoming combined convocation ceremony, Dr. Adegun urged education stakeholders and policymakers to recognise the critical role of technical education in driving industrial growth and reducing unemployment.

“Polytechnic Education Is the Heart of Technology Development”

According to him, the same law that established the polytechnic system clearly defines its purpose — to produce graduates with practical and technical knowledge. However, he lamented that Nigeria’s inability to properly harmonise polytechnic and university education has continued to hinder national progress.

He said:

“Until we realise that technical and polytechnic education drives technology, we will remain stagnant. Countries like China understood this long ago. In 2020, about 60 universities in China were converted into polytechnics, and today, the world looks up to them for technological solutions and innovation.”

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Dr. Adegun stressed that Nigeria must move beyond paper qualifications and focus on hands-on learning that promotes creativity, invention, and production.

“We must use our hands and brains to develop what can move us forward. Relying on theory alone will not take us anywhere,” he added.

He also appealed to the Minister of Education to use political will to strengthen the legal and operational framework supporting the polytechnic system, warning that abolishing or merging polytechnics with universities would be a major setback for Nigeria’s technical growth.

Over 25,000 Graduates to Participate in Combined Convocation

Dr. Adegun announced that more than 25,000 graduates will be awarded diplomas and certificates during the upcoming combined convocation ceremony, which will cover 12 academic sessions that were previously stalled due to financial and administrative crises.

He described the event as a “jinx-breaking milestone” for Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, noting that it marks a new chapter in the institution’s history.

“Convocation is a yearly event that signifies the end of academic pursuit and the beginning of a graduate’s contribution to society. For over a decade, RUGIPO could not hold convocation ceremonies due to accumulated salary arrears, loss of accreditation, and industrial disputes. But now, we’re returning stronger.”

He explained that the combined convocation would celebrate graduates across several years, as the school had faced over 10 years of disruptions caused by economic instability and internal challenges.

Ondo Governor Commended for Reviving the Polytechnic

The rector praised the Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, for his intervention and support towards reviving the polytechnic. He revealed that the governor approved funds to clear outstanding salary arrears and also increased the institution’s monthly subvention to improve staff welfare and operational efficiency.

“Governor Aiyedatiwa has restored hope to both staff and students. His approval of the long-delayed convocation, alongside his financial intervention, has repositioned RUGIPO for growth,” Dr. Adegun stated.

He expressed optimism that the institution will now hold convocation ceremonies regularly and continue to serve as a hub for vocational and technological advancement in Nigeria.

Polytechnic Education and Nigeria’s Future

Experts in education policy have often stressed that polytechnic institutions are vital for national productivity, especially in a country seeking to diversify its economy beyond oil. With the growing demand for skilled technicians, artisans, and innovators, maintaining a strong polytechnic system could be the solution to youth unemployment and industrial underdevelopment.

The rector’s comments come at a time when several education stakeholders are pushing for reforms to address the disparity between HND and B.Sc. qualifications, which has long discouraged many students from pursuing technical education.

As Nigeria continues to pursue industrialisation and digital transformation, education analysts agree that strengthening polytechnic education could attract foreign investment, boost job creation, and accelerate the country’s progress toward sustainable development.