President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to revamp the education sector with a comprehensive four-year strategic plan that would be put in place to guide the development of the sector.
This plan, he added, would not only address the challenges facing the sector but also determine the future of education in the country.
This was contained in the President’s speech at the 35th convocation ceremony of the Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH), Lagos.
Tinubu, who is a visitor to the college, was represented by the Director of Legal Services, Federal Ministry of Education, Ezonebi Azorbo.
He noted that the government was aware of the challenges of the sector, adding that the issues, which include accessibility, equity, funding, teachers’ capacity building, institutional management, and technical and vocational education were being addressed.
The president said: “A comprehensive four-year strategic plan is underway, serving as a roadmap for the sector’s development. A crucial step in this direction was the National Stakeholders workshop held on October 19, 2023, organised by the Federal Ministry of Education. The envisioned roadmap is poised to shape the future of education in our nation.
“However, it is imperative to emphasise that addressing these challenges requires collaborative efforts beyond the government. I call upon all stakeholders, particularly industry leaders, to complement the government’s initiative through contributions to research, structural development, scholarships for underprivileged students, capacity building and graduate employment. The partnership will significantly augment the accomplishments facilitated by agencies like TETFund, PTDF and international development partners.”
Tinubu gave assurance that his administration would give attention to science and technology and ensure indigenous technology is included in the curriculum.
The institution’s rector, Dr Ibrahim Adedotun Abdul, described Yabatech as a national heritage whose facilities should be upgraded and expanded.
He said: “At 76 years, Yabatech has become a national heritage, and there is a need to upgrade facilities and expand the same. We are working to produce graduates that are self-reliant and innovative.”
No fewer than 7,717 graduated from the college, with 254 having Distinction.
At the event, Lady Doja Otedola, Alhaji Hassan Sunmonu, and Babagana Zulum of Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum were made Fellows of the college.
