The Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa, has stressed the urgent need for comprehensive reforms in Federal Polytechnics and Colleges of Education.
Speaking with Chairmen of Governing Councils of Federal Colleges of Education, Polytechnics, and Allied Institutions on Thursday at the Ministry’s Headquarters, he outlined his vision for transformative change.
While stressing the importance of these institutions, Dr. Alausa underscored the six-point priorities of the Ministry.
The Minister emphasized the revitalization of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), addressing critical challenges, also adopting best practices to strengthen the nation’s technical and vocational education system.
Alausa addressed several major challenges that impede the effectiveness of these institutions and outlined a multifaceted strategy to overcome them. Key reforms include modernizing infrastructure, implementing ongoing teacher training programs, and revising the curriculum to ensure it remains industry-relevant. Strategic governance reforms were also proposed, with an emphasis on clarifying the roles of Governing Councils to support institutional administration effectively.
He called for stronger partnerships between the Ministry of Education, Governing Councils, and other stakeholders to foster sustainable progress, adding that “such collaboration is essential for creating an enabling environment for institutional growth and innovation.”
Earlier in her welcome address, the Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Sa’id Ahmad, stressed the need to address critical issues and explore best practices for enhancing Federal Polytechnics and Colleges of Education.
She emphasized the pivotal role of the institutions in national development and the need for concerted efforts to resolve systemic challenges.
Ahmad concluded her address with a message of optimism, expressing confidence that the deliberations and collaborative efforts would result in significant improvements to Nigeria’s technical and vocational education system, producing skilled graduates who can drive economic growth.
The Permanent Secretary Dr. Nasir Sani-Gwarzo represented by Dr. Ejeh Usman, Director overseeing the office of the Permanent Secretary commended the Minister’s leadership and recognized the efforts of all stakeholders in shaping a progressive education system. The session reinforced the Ministry’s dedication to strengthening educational quality and aligning technical education with national development goals.
Furthermore, the Chairman of the Chairmen of Governing Councils of Polytechnics, Senator Barnabas Gemade, and the Chairman of the Chairmen of Governing Councils of Federal Colleges of Education, Professor Francis Faduyile, focused on key issues affecting the institutions, which were amicably resolved by the Ministers.
Signed
Boriowo Folasade
Director Press and PR
