By Mercy Aikoye
The House of Representatives Committee on Polytechnics and Higher Technical Education has urged Rectors of Federal Polytechnics to innovate by introducing courses and programs tailored to their catchment areas’ potential.
Chairman of the committee, Fuad Kayode Laguda made the call during an oversight session with Rectors and management staff of Federal Polytechnics in Kauran-Namoda, Bauchi, Kaltungo, and Bali.
Laguda emphasized the importance of introducing courses in Geology, Mining, and related fields to educate youths and rescue them from banditry. He noted that such courses would also generate internal revenue.
Rector Jonathan Murdi of Federal Polytechnic Kauran-Namoda presented his institution’s progress, highlighting the need for innovative programs to address regional challenges.
Laguda stressed that producing high-quality students would boost the polytechnic’s reputation and attract more students. He encouraged the Rectors to focus on quality education.
Dr. Sani Usman, Rector of Federal Polytechnic Bauchi, presented his institution’s achievements, including 2,112 staff, six schools, and 36 academic programs with 11,000 students.
Dr. Sulaiman Lame, Rector of Federal Polytechnic Kaltungo, highlighted his institution’s progress since its establishment in 2019. He noted plans to introduce more academic courses to maximize staff utilization.
The Committee directed the Rectors to provide additional documents and information, including evidence of insurance payment, personnel cost increases, and procurement processes.
Laguda explained that the oversight session was held in Abuja due to security concerns and timeline constraints. He cited the murder of the University of Sokoto’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor as a reason for the arrangement.
The Committee aims to ensure polytechnics maximize their potential, address regional challenges, and foster innovation to produce high-quality graduates.
