The immediate past Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos Professor Oluwatoyin Temitayo Ogundipe has called for a united push from the government, industry, and academia to transform Nigeria’s polytechnic education into a formidable engine for national development.
In his paper titled “Emerging Technology Advancement, National Development, and Growth in the 21st Century: Repositioning Nigerian Polytechnics,” at the 39th Convocation Ceremony of the Polytechnic Ibadan
Prof. Ogundipe outlined vision for modernizing polytechnic curricula to meet the challenges of today’s digital economy.
He stressed that the successful transformation of these institutions hinges on a concerted effort by the government to provide strategic policy support and investment.
Highlighting the critical role of polytechnics in bridging the skills gap, the professor underscored that these institutions have the potential to drive entrepreneurship and create jobs in sectors where traditional employment is scarce. “The time has come for the government to work hand in hand with industry players to modernize our educational system, ensuring that our graduates are not only market-ready but also capable of fueling economic growth,” he asserted.
Central to his message was the need for strong public-private partnerships. Prof. Ogundipe urged government agencies to introduce incentives—such as tax breaks and funding support—to encourage companies to invest in training programs, internships, and joint research initiatives with polytechnics. He argued that such collaborations would equip students with practical skills in emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and digital marketing.
Emphasizing the importance of lifelong learning, the professor called on policymakers to support flexible training options, including short courses and online programs, that can rapidly adapt to evolving industry demands. According to him, government-backed initiatives in these areas are vital to keeping the workforce competitive and adaptable in a rapidly changing global economy.
Reflecting on the rich legacy of Polytechnic Ibadan, Prof. Ogundipe recalled how the institution’s historical partnerships with industry once set a benchmark in producing skilled, market-ready professionals. He lamented that these robust connections had weakened over time and urged a revitalization of the model, with renewed governmental involvement to re-establish these essential links.
In conclusion, Prof. Ogundipe reiterated that the future of Nigeria’s economic development depends on a unified and determined effort by all stakeholders. “With the right policies and investments from the government, our polytechnics can be transformed into dynamic centers of technological innovation and entrepreneurship—serving as the backbone of our nation’s development in the 21st century,” he declared.
In his brief remark, the acting rector of the Institute Dr Lasisi Taiwo thanked Professor Oluwatoyin for his passion about the Polytechnic development which reflected in his paper and urged him to do more advocacy for the stability and growth of the Polytechnic education in Nigeria so that I can achieve the purpose it was established for and contribute to national development
