President Tinubu Approves YABATECH’s Conversion to University Status

Marking a significant milestone in Nigeria educational system, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the conversion of Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) into a university.

Dr. Tunji Alausa, Minister of Education made the announcement on Friday during a working visit to the institution. There, he addressed the school’s management, staff, and students.

“The rector said some minutes ago that the staff, students, and management of the college have been praying and fasting for its conversion to a university. Somehow, you have kind of ambushed me, but I must let you know that when I discussed the issue with President Bola Tinubu, he did not waste time in approving it,” Alausa revealed.

The minister added that he is awaiting the official memo and necessary protocols to finalize the conversion. He also commended the institution, stating that with over 200 PhD holders among its academic staff, YABATECH is more than ready to transition into a university of technology and innovation.

A New Focus on Technical and Vocational Education

Dr. Alausa emphasized that President Tinubu’s administration is prioritizing technical and vocational education (TVET). He stated, the administration want to equip Nigerian youth with skills that align with global trends.

“One of the reasons we are focusing on technical and vocational education and adding entrepreneurship is to curb the Japa Syndrome. If our youths are proficient in artificial intelligence, robotics, and coding, they can work for global firms while remaining in Nigeria and earning in foreign exchange,” he stated.

He highlighted how Nigeria educational system neglected technical and vocational training for three decades. Indicating that it is producing graduates focused solely on white-collar jobs. However, the current administration is committed to reversing this trend.

“Countries in Europe and Asia have successfully integrated TVET into their education system. Nigeria must follow suit to foster innovation, technological advancement, and private-sector-driven economic growth,” he added.

YABATECH is Ready for University Status – Rector

The Rector of YABATECH, Dr. Ibrahim Abdul, reiterated the institution’s readiness to transition into a university of technical and vocational education.

“We don’t want to become just one of those universities; we want to be a university of innovation that solves societal problems and contributes meaningfully to Nigeria’s development,” Abdul stated.

He further outlined the institution’s achievements under his administration, emphasizing that YABATECH has the manpower and expertise needed for this transformation.

Legislative Approval in Progress

The Chairman of the Governing Council, Prof. Funso Afolabi, thanked the minister for his visit and assured him of the institution’s commitment to excellence.

The next step in the conversion process will be the submission of a bill to the National Assembly, outlining YABATECH’s new status and official name. Once passed and signed into law by the President, the institution will officially operate as a university.

This decision aligns with the government’s broader strategy to strengthen science, technology, and vocational education in Nigeria, ensuring that graduates are equipped with market-ready skills to compete globally.