The House of Representatives in Nigeria is taking steps to address the chronic underfunding of Federal Polytechnics in the upcoming 2025 budget. This promise was made by Kayode Laguda, the Chairman of the House Committee on Federal Polytechnics and Higher Technical Education, during a recent visit to the Federal Polytechnic, Offa, in Kwara State. Laguda acknowledged the inadequate financial support from the Federal Government towards polytechnic institutions across the country and emphasized that the issue is widespread, affecting not just the Federal Polytechnic, Offa, but other polytechnics as well. He indicated a commitment from the committee to advocate for increased funding in the future to bolster the sector crucial for Nigeria’s technological advancement.
During the visit, the Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Dr. Kadiri Kamoru, underscored the need for more investment in the polytechnic sector, stating that adequate financial resources are essential for the country’s technological development. The Rector’s concerns mirror sentiments expressed by other polytechnics Laguda’s committee has visited, highlighting a systemic issue that hampers the growth and effectiveness of polytechnic education in Nigeria. Laguda reiterated that the committee’s role includes oversight functions to assess the documentation and operational conditions of these institutions, which are vital for formulating the advocacy to the Federal Government for the necessary budgetary allocations.
Laguda’s remarks reflect a broader recognition of the fundamental role that polytechnics play in higher education. He outlined a commitment to push for more robust funding mechanisms and described the committee’s oversight mission as a key step in gathering the necessary information to advocate for these changes. By closely examining the operational challenges faced by polytechnics, the committee aims to present a unified case for increased funding that would enhance the technical and vocational training essential for producing skilled graduates in various fields.
Another critical point raised during the committee’s engagement was the call for the Federal Government to grant degree-awarding status to Federal Polytechnics in Nigeria, a move that Dr. Kamoru believes would eliminate the persistent dichotomy between polytechnic and university graduates. The Rector argued that many polytechnics, including Federal Polytechnic, Offa, possess the necessary qualifications and infrastructure to award degrees. He highlighted that the Polytechnic Act empowers these institutions to confer degrees, and the presence of a significant number of PhD holders among their academic staff suggests that they are well-equipped to deliver quality higher education.
Dr. Kamoru’s advocacy for degree-awarding capabilities is rooted in the desire to enhance the academic standing and professional recognition of polytechnic graduates. He contended that by allowing polytechnics to award degrees and establishing a professorial cadre, the distinctions that currently exist between graduates of universities and those of polytechnics would be diminished, thus fostering a more integrated approach to higher education in Nigeria. This would not only address issues of parity among graduates but also promote a more specialized and skilled workforce that aligns with the nation’s development goals.
In conclusion, the House of Representatives’ commitment to advocate for improved funding for Federal Polytechnics and the push for degree-awarding status signify crucial steps toward addressing the long-standing challenges faced in polytechnic education in Nigeria. With increased funding and recognition, Federal Polytechnics have the potential to contribute significantly to the nation’s technological landscape and workforce development. The ongoing dialogue between the government, educational institutions, and stakeholders heralds a critical period for the advancement and modernization of technical education in Nigeria, which is essential for the country’s progress in a rapidly changing global economy.
