Our reporter
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has emphasised the critical role of technical and vocational education in driving Nigeria’s industrial growth, creating jobs, and advancing technology.
Speaking through the Minister for Regional Development, Engr. Abubakar Momoh, at the 61st anniversary and combined 26th–29th convocation ceremony of Auchi Polytechnic, Tinubu stressed the importance of equipping young Nigerians with practical skills.
“Technical education is essential for industrial development, job creation, and technological advancement,” he stated. “Institutions like Auchi Polytechnic play a vital role in preparing the workforce for a dynamic and evolving job market.”
He urged graduates to harness their skills as leaders, innovators, and problem-solvers to contribute to national development.
Minister of Education, Dr. Morufu Alausa, represented by Dr. Usman, a director in the ministry, called for the judicious use of the Education Trust Fund (ETF) to bolster infrastructure in tertiary institutions.
“The government is committed to advancing technological education, and polytechnics will remain central to this vision,” Alausa said. He commended Auchi Polytechnic for maintaining its integrity amid challenges, urging the institution to continue to set a standard for ethical practices in Nigeria’s educational sector.
The Chairman of the Governing Council, Professor Jonathan Ayuba, appealed for increased budgetary allocations to address infrastructural deficits. He highlighted the urgent need for improved hostel accommodations, lecture theatres, workshops, and laboratories.
While acknowledging the support from TETFUND, he noted that current interventions are insufficient for the institution’s growing needs.
The Rector of Auchi Polytechnic, Dr. Salisu Umar, highlighted key achievements during his tenure, including the graduation of 19,543 students with Higher National Diplomas (HND) over four years.
He also enumerated completed and ongoing projects, such as a 250-capacity lecture theatre, a new mechanical engineering workshop, and the construction of a skills acquisition center.
“We are focused on enhancing our infrastructure and academic offerings to ensure our students remain competitive globally,” Umar said.
The convocation also saw the conferment of honorary fellowship awards on five distinguished individuals, including Apostle Prof. Johnson Suleman and Chief Dr. Abu Inu-Umoru, for their contributions to various sectors.
Graduates were urged to embrace lifelong learning and innovation as they step into the workforce, while teaching staff were encouraged to inspire students and demonstrate unwavering commitment to their roles.
The ceremony marked a celebration of achievement and a call to action for sustained investment in technical education as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s future.
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