The Rector of Federal Polytechnic Ayede, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Engr. Dr. Taofeek Adekunle Abdul-Hameed, has said that the new CISCO-accredited Networking Academy earned by the institution would benefit the institution, students, staff, host communities and beyond.
Dr. Abdul-Hameed disclosed this while speaking on the institution’s feat of securing Cisco Networking Academy Learning Centre accreditation, describing it as a milestone in the polytechnic’s journey towards global academic relevance and digital innovation.
Cisco Systems Inc. (using the trademark ‘Cisco’) is an American multinational digital communications technology conglomerate corporation headquartered in San Jose, California.
The Rector, in a statement on Wednesday by the institution’s Protocols and Public Relations Officer, Mr. Sunday Adepoju, highlighted the multifarious impacts that the learning centre would have on the institution and the larger communities.
Dr. Abdul-Hameed said, “First and foremost, let me re-emphasise that our commitment to excellence at Federal Polytechnic Ayede remains un-thwarted. The accreditation, granted by CISCO Systems, a global leader in networking and IT solutions, will enable the Polytechnic offer specialized training in key areas such as networking, cybersecurity, programming, data science, operating systems, digital literacy, and professional development.
“These programmes align with internationally recognized certifications and are designed to equip students with job-ready skills for the fast-evolving digital economy.
“This accreditation is a major leap for our institution as it reflects our strategic focus on equipping students with practical, industry-relevant skills and reinforces our mission to become a center of excellence in technology and innovation.”
Speaking on the benefits of the accredited centre to the institution, the Rector said, “Federal Polytechnic Ayede, Oyo State will benefit from being a Cisco Networking Academy in several ways. Firstly, it can enhance its reputation and credibility by associating with a global brand like Cisco. This can lead to increased enrollment as students are attracted to programs that offer industry-recognized certifications.
“Additively, the institution can improve its curriculum by adopting Cisco’s up-to-date and industry-relevant materials.
“Furthermore, the institution can access Cisco’s resources, including training and support, which can help improve the overall quality of its programmes.
“Our institution can also benefit from being part of a Cisco Networking Academy. Instructors can develop their skills and knowledge through Cisco’s training programmes, which can help them stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends and technologies. This can lead to industry recognition and credibility, which can be beneficial for their careers.
“Moreover, staff can connect with other professionals and industry partners through Cisco’s network, which can lead to new opportunities and collaborations.”
He stated that students of the institution are the biggest beneficiaries of being part of a Cisco Networking Academy, adding that the communities would benefit from the scheme.
“Our students can earn industry-recognized certifications that can enhance their career prospects and improve their employability. By developing skills and knowledge that are in demand by employers, students can increase their chances of getting hired and succeeding in their chosen careers. Additionally, students can access career opportunities and networking events through Cisco’s network, which can help them connect with potential employers and industry partners.
“The community can also benefit. By providing a skilled workforce with industry-recognized certifications, the community can attract new businesses and industries, which can lead to economic development and growth.
“Also, the community can benefit from partnerships and collaborations between the institution and local businesses and organizations, which can lead to new opportunities and initiatives,” Dr. Abdul-Hameed said.
