President Bola Tinubu has officially approved the transformation of Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) into a full-fledged university, marking a significant milestone in Nigeria’s higher education sector.
The announcement was made on Friday by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, during his visit to the institution, where he engaged with the management, staff, and students.
Dr. Alausa emphasized that the upgrade aligns with the government’s commitment to expanding access to quality education and enhancing technical and vocational training in the country.
YABATECH, established in 1947, is Nigeria’s first higher educational institution and has played a crucial role in producing skilled professionals across various fields.
Its elevation to university status is expected to open new opportunities for advanced research, innovation, and academic excellence.
“The rector said some minutes ago that the staff, students, and management of the college have been praying and fasting that it be converted to a university. Somehow, you have kind of ambushed me, but I must let you know that when I discussed the issue with President Bola Tinubu, he did not waste time in approving. I am just waiting for the memo and other necessary protocols from the appropriate quarters,” Alausa stated.
Describing YABATECH as a distinguished institution, he noted that with more than 200 doctorate holders among its faculty, the school is well-equipped for the transition.
“All the credit about this should go to the president, who loves education and is concerned about giving the best to the youths who are our future leaders,” he added.
The minister commended the institution for its dedication to academic excellence and assured that the federal government would continue to support advancements in technology and innovation.
Highlighting the administration’s focus on technical and vocational education, Alausa emphasized the importance of equipping young Nigerians with skills in artificial intelligence, robotics, and coding to enhance global employment opportunities.
“We are not taking the issue of artificial intelligence, robotics, coding, and others with levity. We know that if our youths are good at those things, they can be in Nigeria and working for firms in many parts of the world, and they will be earning foreign exchange. That will help stem this Japa of a thing, where people would travel abroad to do menial jobs,” he said.
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