Pro-Chancellor Redeemer's University, Ogundipe, Advocates Overhaul of Polytechnic Education in Nigeria

The Pro-Chancellor of Redeemer's University, Ede, Osun State, and the 12th Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Prof. Oluwatoyin Ogundipe, has called for a comprehensive repositioning of Nigeria's polytechnic education system to drive technological innovation and economic growth.

Ogundipe made this call on Wednesday while delivering the 39th Convocation Lecture at The Polytechnic, Ibadan (TPI). He emphasized that although polytechnics in Nigeria were originally designed to provide middle-level technical manpower, graduates of these institutions should not be considered inferior in contributing to national development.

Highlighting the crucial role of polytechnic education in fostering small and medium-scale enterprises (SMSEs), Ogundipe stressed that a well-structured polytechnic system could significantly enhance the country's economic fortune. He pointed out that the hands-on technical training provided by polytechnics is essential for the sustainability and growth of SMSEs, which are fundamental to national economic progress.

“It is on this note that I would like to emphasize the importance of polytechnic programmes as the best fit for the improvement of the nation's economy,” Ogundipe stated. “For a long time, polytechnic education has been neglected, and this has affected the crucial roles it plays in supporting small and medium-scale industries. Without the prosperity of SMSEs, Nigeria may find it difficult to achieve sustainable economic growth beyond the oil sector.”

According to him, polytechnic education should serve as the backbone of the Nigerian economy, given its potential to drive industrialization and innovation. He urged the government and stakeholders to invest in polytechnic education, ensuring that it receives the necessary funding and attention to bridge the technological gap and create a skilled workforce for national development.

Ogundipe reiterated that Nigeria stands to gain immensely from supporting and strengthening polytechnic institutions, adding that prioritizing technical education will pave the way for technological advancements and economic diversification.