Yabatech will be upgraded to university, says Tunji Alausa

Tunji Alausa, the minister of education, says President Bola Tinubu has approved the long-awaited conversion of Yaba College of Technology (YabaTech) into a university.

Alausa confirmed the development on Friday while addressing the institution’s management during a visit.

After inspecting and commissioning several projects, he expressed satisfaction with the institution’s maintenance culture.

“This institution is a legacy. With over 200 staff members holding doctorate degrees, it is more than ready to attain university status,” he said.

“I discussed with President Tinubu. He approved it without hesitation. I am now awaiting the official memo and necessary protocols.”

Alausa urged the institution to prioritise innovation and vocational skills in its programmes.

He noted that in Europe, and elsewhere, technical and vocational education is incorporated into their curriculum.

He emphasised the government’s focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM) and Entrepreneurship.

“We need to reshape our country, and Yabatech must key into technology again,” he said.

“Over 70 per cent of our population consists of youths, and we must equip them with technical skills. Developing these skills is crucial for national progress.”

Alausa decried the country’s overemphasis on white-collar jobs, which has led to high youth unemployment.

“We must change this narrative,” he stressed.

He urged the institution to take artificial intelligence, robotics, and coding seriously.

“If our youths excel in these fields, they can work remotely and earn foreign exchange,” he said.

“There are over 685,000 jobs available in tech and software development. I challenge Yabatech to drive innovation and provide education that supports manufacturing and technology.

“This will strengthen the private sector, which in turn will drive societal growth. We must support President Bola Tinubu in moving the nation forward.”

Alausa commended Yabatech’s rector Ibraheem Abdul for his endowment fund projects.

He advised the creation of a robust alumni endowment office as a platform for giving back.

He also encouraged the institution to collaborate with industries to commercialise its research products.

“Universities abroad thrive on endowment,” the minister pointed out.

The bill outlining the college’s change in status and its new name is expected to be sent to the national assembly for passage and presidential assent.