Abuja: Proprietors of Private Polytechnics, under the aegis of the Association of Private Polytechnics in Nigeria (APPN), have called on the government to pay attention to technical education in the country. Dr Benjamin Achiatar, President of the APPN, emphasized the need for government support during an interview in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Achiatar highlighted that technical education is crucial for nation building by providing skilled manpower and boosting productivity. He stated that a skilled technical workforce attracts investment and supports industries essential for economic development. Achiatar further pointed out that technical capabilities could enhance a nation’s standing in the global market.
Achiatar noted that technical education fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which are important for innovation. He reminded the government of its promise to foster private sector growth, emphasizing that Private Polytechnics are a key component of private sector education. Achiatar argued that growing the private sector would lead to an increase in the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
He also called for support in addressing infrastructure deficits such as power supply and water, and appealed for access to the National Research Fund for creative ideas and innovations beyond just government institutions. Achiatar urged government officials to engage in dialogue with private polytechnics to produce the technical manpower needed for Nigeria’s industrialisation.
Highlighting international examples, Achiatar mentioned that countries like China are converting universities to polytechnics to support industrial growth. He warned that ignoring technological education would result in continued reliance on imported products, thus bolstering foreign economies.
Olusola Alalade, General Secretary of the APPN, also contributed to the discussion, suggesting that polytechnics should be allowed to offer degree courses like B.Tech (Hons) to better serve the educational system. Alalade, who owns Igbaja Polytechnic, argued for Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETfund) research grants to be available to private polytechnics as well.
Alalade urged the Federal Government to extend the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) to students in private institutions, advocating for equal opportunities for all students, regardless of whether they attend public or private schools.