By Ikugbadi Oluwasegun
President Bola Tinubu has approved the conversion of Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) into a university.
This was disclosed on Friday by Dr. Tunji Alausa, Minister of Education during a working visit to the institution, where he addressed the management, staff and students.
“The rector mentioned that the college community has been praying and fasting for this transformation. When I discussed the matter with President Tinubu, he swiftly approved it. We are now awaiting the official memo and necessary protocols,” Alausa said.
“This school is a legacy, and with over 200 staff members holding doctorate degrees, it is more than ready to become a university. The credit goes to the president, who is committed to education and youth development,” he said. Alausa highlighted the administration’s focus on technical education as a means to curb the Japa Syndrome—the mass emigration of skilled Nigerians abroad.
“We are prioritizing fields like artificial intelligence, robotics, and coding. With the right skills, Nigerian youths can work for global companies remotely and earn foreign exchange, reducing the need to seek menial jobs overseas,” he explained.
Dr. Ibrahim Abdul, the rector, reiterated YABATECH’s readiness to become a university, stating that the institution aims to be a center for technical and vocational education that drives innovation and addresses societal challenges.
Meanwhile, Prof. Funso Afolabi, Chairman of the Governing Council, urged the minister to support the school’s demands. A bill formalizing the college’s new status and name is expected to be submitted to the National Assembly for approval and presidential assent.
