A growing wave of opposition has emerged following the federal government’s decision to upgrade Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) into a university, with polytechnic students warning that the move threatens Nigeria’s technical education sector.
The National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS) has strongly criticised the conversion, arguing that it shifts focus from practical, industry-driven learning to conventional academic training.
According to NAPS President Eshiofune Oghayan, polytechnics play a crucial role in producing skilled professionals needed for national development, and turning them into universities could weaken this foundation.
Rather than altering the status of polytechnics, NAPS is calling for an alternative approach which involves allowing Higher National Diploma (HND) holders to transition seamlessly into Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) degrees.
The group insists that this would improve recognition for polytechnic graduates without compromising the specialised training they receive.
In addition, NAPS has proposed an overhaul of the country’s technical education framework, including restructuring the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) into a more powerful Polytechnic Education Commission. This, they argue, would ensure better funding, clearer career pathways for graduates, and a stronger policy direction for polytechnic institutions.
The student body has urged President Bola Tinubu to reconsider the conversion plan, emphasising that polytechnics should be modernised and strengthened rather than eliminated.
With tensions rising, NAPS has hinted at nationwide demonstrations if the government proceeds with the upgrade, vowing to defend the integrity of polytechnic education.
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