- Dr. Alausa Urges Polytechnics to Drive Skills and National Development
- Dr. Alausa described Polytechnics as “crucibles where innovation meets practicality
- Alausa emphasised zero tolerance for corruption and timely audits to build public trust and attract investment
The Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, has urged leaders of Nigerian Polytechnics and Colleges of Technology to prioritise innovation, good governance, and sustainability as key drivers of national development, Eko Hot Blog reports.
Addressing the retreat organised by the Council of Heads of Polytechnics and Colleges of Technology (COHEADS) on Wednesday, 21st January 2026 at the TETFund Auditorium in Abuja, Dr. Alausa described Polytechnics as “crucibles where innovation meets practicality, where skills forge economic resilience, and where sustainable development becomes a lived reality for our nation.”
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Since assuming office, the Federal Ministry of Education has prioritised Technical and Vocational Education and Training, recognising that Nigeria’s future relies on producing a workforce equipped with practical, hands-on skills rather than solely theoretical knowledge. The ministry has adopted policies to ensure Polytechnic graduates are industry-ready, innovative problem-solvers capable of driving national development.
Dr. Alausa encouraged institutions to foster entrepreneurship centres, research hubs, and industry partnerships that convert ideas into enterprises and graduates into job creators. He highlighted key sectors for leadership, including renewable energy, agricultural technology, digital manufacturing, and climate-resilient solutions that align with Nigeria’s Sustainable Development Goals.
Good governance, he added, is central to this transformation. Governing Councils and Management teams must uphold transparency, accountability, and ethical leadership. Appointments and promotions should be merit-based, resources managed prudently, and fiscal discipline enforced. Dr. Alausa emphasised zero tolerance for corruption and timely audits to build public trust and attract investment.
Sustainability, he said, requires long-term vision. Polytechnics should develop sustainable funding through increased internally generated revenue from production and services, eco-friendly campuses, and resilient infrastructure. “Let our Polytechnics produce what they consume, from food to energy and equipment, extending this to national needs to reduce import dependence,” he stated.
Acknowledging challenges such as funding gaps, outdated facilities, and societal bias towards degrees over skills, Dr. Alausa highlighted the opportunities under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. He assured participants of policy reforms, infrastructure upgrades, and partnerships to support the sector. He also announced a special TETFund intervention this year to upgrade Polytechnic Engineering Schools with state-of-the-art equipment, following similar support for 12 Medical Colleges last year.
Dr. Alausa concluded by urging all participants to return to their institutions as change agents, implement these principles with urgency, and unite in driving the transformation of Nigerian Polytechnics.
“God bless our Polytechnics. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he said.
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