By Christiana Ekpa
The Federal Ministry of Education, National Board for Technical Education, and key stakeholders in the polytechnic sector have collectively endorsed the establishment of a National Polytechnic Commission.
This move was to elevate academic standards and promote excellence in the sector.
Permanent Secretary Sani Gwarzo, representing the Federal Ministry of Education, emphasized the commission’s urgency, stating it will assume regulatory responsibilities and align Nigerian polytechnics with global counterparts.
He commended the House for initiating the bill and assured the ministry’s support for the commission’s establishment.
Speaker of the House, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, highlighted the commission’s role in ensuring standardization and uniformity across polytechnics, enhancing education quality, and preparing graduates to meet industry demands.
He emphasized the initiative’s potential to contribute significantly to the economy.
The public hearing demonstrated a united commitment to reforming the polytechnic sector, paving the way for the National Polytechnic Commission’s establishment and a brighter future for technical education in Nigeria.
He said that the public hearing aligns seamlessly with the legislative agenda aimed at enhancing the educational framework within Nigeria.
Abbas said: “We recognize that in an increasingly competitive global environment, it is imperative that we equip our youth with relevant skills and knowledge. The proposed agency and institutions will serve as beacons of excellence—providing qualitative education that meets international standards while also being tailored to meet local needs.
“In recent years, there has been an increasing recognition of the critical role that technical and vocational education plays in national development.
“It is no longer sufficient for our educational institutions to merely impart theoretical knowledge; we must also equip our youth with practical skills that will enable them to thrive in an ever-evolving job market. The establishment of these institutions is a testament to our resolve to bridge the gap between education and employment”.
