Daud Olatunji
Prof. Deborah Esan, a lecturer at Bowen University, Iwo, Osun State, has reiterated that graduates of polytechnic institutions should not be seen as inferior to their university counterparts.
Esan, speaking at the 3rd convocation ceremony of the Ogun State Polytechnic of Health and Allied Sciences,Ilese,IJebu, said on the role of polytechnic education in addressing Nigeria’s technical and vocational training needs, highlighted the critical contributions polytechnics have made in supporting post-independence industrialization and national development.
Esan noted that polytechnic institutions play a pivotal role in bridging theoretical knowledge with practical skills, helping students meet both national developmental goals and the demands of the global market.
“Polytechnic education emerged in response to the urgent need for technical and vocational training, especially to support industrialization.
These institutions have continually been vital in producing skilled graduates ready to meet the demands of the job market,” she said.
However, Esan pointed out that polytechnics face numerous challenges that hinder their effectiveness.
According to her, inadequate funding remains a persistent issue, leading to dilapidated infrastructure, outdated equipment, and a shortage of essential learning resources.
She stressed that such deficiencies negatively affect the quality of education provided by these institutions and the ability of graduates to compete effectively in the workforce.
Another key issue identified by Esan is the shortage of qualified faculty members in specialized technical fields.
She emphasized that “the quality of education is directly linked to the quality of teachers,” but many polytechnics struggle to attract and retain enough skilled lecturers due to financial constraints and limited opportunities for professional development.
This leads to a gap between academic training and industry needs, leaving graduates ill-prepared for the challenges they may face in their careers.
Esan also addressed the negative perception of polytechnic education in Nigeria, where it is often seen as a second-tier option compared to university education.
This stigma has discouraged many talented students from enrolling in polytechnic programs, resulting in a shortage of skilled technicians and technologists.
Esan argued for a much-needed rebranding of polytechnic education to highlight its critical role in national development and global competitiveness.
Esan emphasized that polytechnic graduates must not be viewed as inferior to their university counterparts. Rather, they possess unique practical skills that are essential for driving industrialization and national development.
“Success doesn’t always require relocating. Whether you’re in Nigeria or abroad, your career can have a global impact.”
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