Dr. Samson Adegoke, Rector of Osun State College of Technology, Esa-Oke, has issued a fervent call for increased government investment in polytechnic education, emphasizing its crucial role in Nigeria’s national development. Speaking at a pre-convocation press conference, he lamented the persistent neglect of polytechnics, arguing that true progress necessitates a strategic shift towards prioritizing technical and vocational education. Adegoke highlighted the irony of a nation striving for technological advancement while simultaneously sidelining the very institutions designed to produce the skilled workforce needed to drive that advancement. He pointed out that many of the technological successes enjoyed today are the fruits of individuals trained in technical colleges and institutes, making the current disregard for polytechnic education even more perplexing and detrimental to national progress.
The Rector’s plea underscores a fundamental disconnect between Nigeria’s developmental aspirations and its investment priorities. He argues that the nation’s pursuit of technological advancement is inherently undermined by the inadequate support provided to polytechnic graduates, who represent the backbone of a skilled and innovative workforce. This lack of support not only discourages aspiring technicians and engineers but also deprives the nation of the human capital necessary to achieve its developmental goals. Adegoke’s concerns reflect a broader systemic issue where lip service is paid to the importance of technical education without corresponding tangible investment and recognition. This disparity creates a discouraging environment for students pursuing technical fields, potentially leading to a brain drain as talented individuals seek opportunities in countries that value their skills.
The upcoming convocation ceremony, scheduled to celebrate the achievements of over 10,800 graduates from three academic sessions, serves as a poignant backdrop for the Rector’s appeal. The graduating class, which includes a student with an impressive 3.91 CGPA, represents the potential that lies untapped within Nigeria’s polytechnic system. Adegoke uses this occasion to draw attention to the stark contrast between the recognition afforded to academic excellence and the lavish rewards bestowed upon participants in entertainment programs like Big Brother Naija. He argues that the meager financial acknowledgement given to high-achieving students sends a disheartening message, devaluing their dedication and hard work while simultaneously glorifying less impactful pursuits.
The Rector’s comparison between the treatment of academic achievers and reality TV stars highlights a societal imbalance in values and priorities. He contends that while academic excellence is fundamental to national development, it is often relegated to a secondary position in the public consciousness. This disparity, he suggests, is reflected in the disproportionate financial rewards given to entertainment figures compared to the paltry sums offered to students who have dedicated years to mastering complex technical skills. The symbolic gesture of a handshake, while well-intentioned, pales in comparison to the substantial financial gains enjoyed by reality TV show winners, further emphasizing the perceived societal undervaluing of intellectual pursuits.
The Rector’s critique extends beyond a simple comparison of monetary rewards; it speaks to a deeper societal issue regarding the recognition and appreciation of intellectual achievement. He implicitly questions the message being sent to young Nigerians about what is truly valued in society. If entertainment and fleeting fame are rewarded more handsomely than the pursuit of knowledge and technical expertise, what incentive is there for young people to dedicate themselves to academic pursuits that ultimately contribute to national development? This disparity, Adegoke argues, not only discourages academic excellence but also perpetuates a cycle where intellectual contributions are undervalued, hindering the nation’s progress.
The Rector’s call to action is a plea for a fundamental shift in societal values and priorities. He advocates for a system that recognizes and rewards intellectual achievement, particularly in fields crucial to national development. He emphasizes that investing in polytechnic education is not merely about funding institutions; it is about cultivating a culture that values technical expertise and recognizes the vital role it plays in building a prosperous future. By highlighting the disparity between the recognition afforded to academic excellence and the rewards showered upon entertainment figures, Adegoke seeks to spark a national conversation about the values we prioritize and the message we send to future generations about the importance of education and intellectual pursuit. He ultimately argues that investing in polytechnic education and recognizing the contributions of its graduates are essential steps towards unlocking Nigeria’s full potential and ensuring its sustainable development.
