Nigerian Government fine-tuning final modalities for YABATECH’s transition to University: Official

*The Federal Government reveals the Committee for the seamless transition of the latest upgrade of YABATECH to Yaba Technical and Vocational University has submitted its report

Isola Moses | ConsumerConnect

The Federal Government of Nigeria has commenced consideration of recommendations of the Committee on the modalities for the upgrade of the Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH), in Lagos, to the University of Technology and Vocational Studies.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, gave this update during the 37th Convocation Ceremony of the institution of higher learning.

President Tinubu February 2025, had approved the conversion of YABATECH into a university.

Task Systems, Nigerian tech firm, wins coveted ‘Microsoft Best Partner Award’ in US

Dr. Tunji Alausa, Honourable Minister for Education, later announced the Federal Government’s approval during a working visit to the institution February 14 this year.

Speaking at the 37th convocation of the institution, the President said the upgrade of YABATECH, established originally as Yaba Technical Institute, in 1947, was aimed at integrating hands-on technical training with advanced research to promote innovation, economic growth and national development in the country.

Represented at the convocation by Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad, Minister of State for Education, Tinubu also stated: “As you are aware, the Federal Government has approved the upgrading of YABATECH to Yaba Technical and Vocational University.

“The Committee constituted to work on the modalities to bring about seamless transition has already submitted its report.

“The recommendations are being considered.”

The Nigerian leader further noted that the government prioritised Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Medical Sciences (STEMS) alongside technical and vocational education.

READ ALSO: NITDA Wins ‘Government Agency Of The Year’ Award For IT Development, Tech Adoption

Starlink Unveils Satellite Internet On Mobile With No Installation, New Phone Requirement

UK-Funded GBB Accelerator Programme Grows Green Industries In Nigeria

He, therefore, described these fields of human endeavour as the foundation upon which Nigeria could equip its youths with relevant 21st Century skills.

The Federal Ministry of Education, he said, has continued to align learning with employability through the expansion of vocational training and digital skills programmes.

Tinubu explained: “Through the Vocational Enterprise Institutes, over 960,000 trainees have been enrolled nationwide across over 25 specialised trades, ensuring that young Nigerians acquire practical, market-ready skills.

“In addition, the Ministry of Education is driving large-scale digital capacity-building programmes to equip graduates for success in Nigeria’s fast-evolving digital economy.”

The President said: “These initiatives include intensive digital literacy bootcamps in coding, cybersecurity, data analytics, and digital marketing; e-learning platforms that provide access to certified online courses; structured internships and industrial attachments with leading technology companies; and the establishment of innovation and entrepreneurship hubs to nurture start-ups and small businesses.”

Addressing the graduating students, Tinubu urged them to “take their place as builders of a new Nigeria.”

The President equally encouraged industry leaders and private-sector players to partner with the government in supporting research, innovation and enterprise development within tertiary institutions.

He averred: “Nation building is not the responsibility of government alone; it is a sacred duty we all share.”

In his address at the event, Dr. Ibraheem Abdul, Rector of YABATECH, affirmed that the leading institution is well on the path to becoming Nigeria’s first specialised University of Technology and Vocational Studies, following the Federal Government’s approval of its upgrade.

Dr. Abdul described the transition to a University as a “historic milestone” and the strongest affirmation of YABATECH’s 78-year legacy as the country’s premier technical and vocational institution.

The Rector also expressed optimism that the transition to a specialised university would unlock new opportunities for research, skills development and national economic growth.

He lauded President Tinubu for granting what he called a “life-changing approval” for the upgrade.

The elevation, Abdul said, positions the institution to power Nigeria’s next phase of innovation-driven development.

Abdul further stated: “This is the single greatest recognition of our 78 years of excellence.

“It is the clearest confirmation that YABATECH is ready to champion Nigeria’s rise through technology, technical skills, and vocational innovation.”

The Rector as well commended Dr. Alausa, Minister for Education, for his support.

He described the Minister as a key believer in the institution’s capacity to host Africa’s first university dedicated exclusively to TVET and skills development.

Abdul also commended Prof. Ahmad for her contributions to the college and the national education sector.

He announced that beginning this year, the convocation ceremony would be held annually, The Rector assured that graduates would begin to receive their Certificates on convocation day as part of new measures to improve administrative efficiency.

A total of 8,654 students received National Diplomas, Higher National Diplomas and Certificates for the 2023/2024 academic session.

They include 291 Distinctions, 2,434 Upper Credits, 4,403 Lower Credits and 1,526 Pass grades.

Abdul urged the graduands to embrace entrepreneurship and innovation.

YABATECH has equipped them with both academic competence and compulsory vocational skills, stated he.

Dr. Abdul added: “You are leaving here not as job-seekers but as job-creators.

“That is the YABATECH promise, and we have delivered it.”

Kindly Share This Story