In a landmark decision, President Bola Tinubu has officially approved the transformation of Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) into a university, marking a significant shift in Nigeria’s educational landscape.
This decision comes after decades of academic excellence at the nation’s first college of technology, established in 1947.
The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, confirmed the approval on Friday during his visit to YABATECH’s management. Alausa stated, “I discussed this with President Tinubu, and he approved it immediately. I am now awaiting the official memo to kickstart the necessary processes.”
YABATECH, which has long been recognized for its contributions to vocational and technical education, boasts a strong academic foundation, with over 200 staff members holding doctorate degrees.
Alausa praised the institution’s history, saying, “This institution is a legacy. With a rich history and a strong academic foundation, it is more than ready for university status.”
As part of its new identity, the focus will shift toward fostering innovation and technology, with a specific emphasis on Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM), and Entrepreneurship.
Alausa emphasized, “We must reshape our country, and YABATECH must once again lead in technology and vocational education.”
In addition, he urged the institution to integrate emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), Robotics, and Coding into its curriculum. “If our youths excel in these areas, they can work remotely and earn foreign exchange.
There are over 685,000 jobs available in tech and software development globally, and YABATECH must rise to meet this demand,” he added.
Dr. Ibraheem Abdul, YABATECH’s Rector, expressed his excitement about the development, stating, “We aim to be a university of technical and vocational education, solving societal challenges and advancing national development.”
The transition process will now proceed with a bill to be reviewed and passed by the National Assembly, defining the institution’s new status. Once this is done, the bill will be presented to the president for final assent.
This move solidifies YABATECH’s position as a leader in technical and vocational education in Nigeria, paving the way for increased innovation, collaboration with industries, and a stronger focus on emerging technologies.
