President Tinubu Approves Upgrade of YABATECH to University Status

President Bola Tinubu has approved the long-awaited upgrade of Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) to a university, according to the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa.

Alausa confirmed the development on Friday during a visit to the institution, where he addressed its management and commissioned several projects. Expressing satisfaction with the institution’s maintenance culture, he highlighted YABATECH’s readiness for the transition, citing its faculty strength and academic achievements.

“This institution is a legacy. With over 200 staff members holding doctorate degrees, it is more than ready to attain university status,” Alausa stated.

He revealed that after discussions with President Tinubu, the approval was granted without hesitation. “I am now awaiting the official memo and necessary protocols,” he added.

The minister urged the institution to prioritize innovation and vocational skills in its programs, emphasizing that technical and vocational education is essential for national development, as seen in Europe and other parts of the world.

Alausa reaffirmed the government’s commitment to Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM), and Entrepreneurship education, stressing the need for Nigeria to reshape its approach to workforce development.

“Over 70 percent of our population consists of youths, and we must equip them with technical skills. Developing these skills is crucial for national progress,” he said.

He decried the country’s overemphasis on white-collar jobs, which has contributed to high youth unemployment. “We must change this narrative,” he emphasized, urging YABATECH to integrate artificial intelligence, robotics, and coding into its curriculum.

“There are over 685,000 jobs available in tech and software development. I challenge YABATECH to drive innovation and provide education that supports manufacturing and technology. This will strengthen the private sector, which in turn will drive societal growth,” Alausa added.

The minister commended YABATECH’s Rector, Ibraheem Abdul, for his endowment fund projects and advised the institution to establish a robust alumni endowment office to facilitate financial support. He also encouraged collaboration with industries to commercialize research products, noting that universities abroad thrive on endowments.

Alausa disclosed that the bill outlining the college’s conversion and new name will soon be sent to the National Assembly for passage and presidential assent, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of YABATECH into a full-fledged university.