The National President of the Federal Polytechnic Ado Ekiti Alumni Association, Dr. Oyedokun Abiodun, has called on President Bola Tinubu to upgrade polytechnics across Nigeria to degree-awarding institutions. He also urged the government to improve funding and provide greater attention to polytechnic education to help these institutions achieve their full potential and contribute more effectively to national development.
Dr. Abiodun made this appeal on Sunday during an event in Ado Ekiti organized to honor Dr. Theresa Akande, a former rector of the institution. At the occasion, the alumni association also presented the communiqué from its inaugural Annual General Meeting (AGM), held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
The Rivers State chapter, led by Major Ken Ukwu (retd.), hosted the AGM, which coincided with its 10th anniversary. Themed “Alumni Contribution to the Nation’s Development as It Strengthens Our National Unity,” the event highlighted the role of alumni in fostering progress and unity in the country.
The association recognized Dr. Akande for her impactful tenure as rector, during which the institution experienced significant growth and transformation. To express their gratitude, the alumni presented her with a cheque of one million naira. Dr. Abiodun noted that Dr. Akande’s faith in the institution’s graduates led to numerous alumni securing employment, enabling them to contribute to their alma mater’s development.
“She (Akande) believed in us, the products of this great institution. Her unwavering faith in our abilities led to the employment of many alumni, providing us with opportunities to contribute to the growth of our alma mater,” Abiodun said.
In her response, Dr. Akande expressed heartfelt gratitude, saying, “To say it was a surprise that completely blindsided my children and me is putting it mildly. By these beautiful, selfless gestures of kindness, empathy, and consideration, you have all sown very significant seeds, the fruits of which you will continue to reap throughout your lives, and which your children and generations yet unborn will also benefit from in the mercy and goodness of the Most High.”
The AGM communiqué urged President Tinubu to address issues surrounding polytechnic education in Nigeria, including the upgrade of polytechnics to degree-awarding institutions and the elimination of the disparity between Higher National Diploma (HND) and university degrees.
The association also advocated for the establishment of a National Polytechnic Commission, similar to the commissions governing universities and colleges of education. Furthermore, they recommended appointing individuals with polytechnic education backgrounds to committees and panels responsible for shaping policies on polytechnic education.
Delivering the keynote lecture at the AGM, the institution’s rector, Dr. Temitope Alake, emphasized the pivotal role of alumni in national development. He highlighted the need for collaboration to address leadership challenges, economic instability, and national disunity. Dr. Alake also outlined key contributions alumni can make, including mentoring, advocacy, resource mobilization, and serving as role models for future generations.
The event showcased the critical contributions of polytechnic graduates to nation-building and reaffirmed the association’s commitment to advocating for improved recognition and support for polytechnic education in Nigeria.
