Education
Why we attach importance to skill acquisition for our students – Pioneer Rector, Federal Poly, Ayede
Pioneer Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Ayede, Oyo State, Dr. Taofeek Adekunle Abdul-Hameed in this interview with Mega Icon Magazine, shares his experience on the journey so far in the past two years as well as his vision for the fastest growing polytechnic, among its peers established in 2021, by former President Muhammadu Buhari.
The University of Ilorin trained Electrical Engineer maintained that the institution would thrive on innovation, skills, functional education, and international partnerships.
Excerpts :
As the Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Ayede, how would you describe the journey so far in the past two years?
First and foremost, we give thanks to God almighty. There have been so many challenges, really. We just have to thank God because most of the challenges have been surmounted one by one and gradually. We also know that Rome was not built in a day. Pioneering a new institution is like being thrown into a bush without a path or compass. You have to be the one to find your way, create your path, design your compass, and find your bearings. It was actually like that, but all the same, we thank God for where we are.
The stage so far might seem not significant to some, but if you compare us with other Polytechnics established at the same time, we can say we are faring very well in terms of manpower, infrastructural development, and in terms of student admission.
To a large extent, we are far better than many of our contemporaries. The summary is that the journey has been so challenging. Like they say, when the going gets tough, the tough get going. We are trying our best, and we hope in the upcoming years, the result will be more manifested than what we have currently.
Very recently, you said the polytechnic is determined on producing functional and active employers of labour after graduation. Can you share your vision for the institution with us?
The vision is still intact. You see there is this saying, being propagated by the Executive Secretary of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) Prof. Bugaje, “Skills not degrees”. Looking at what is trending in the advanced world, the emphasis is on skills, digital skills, and other soft skills even more than degrees. Until we can focus on skill acquisition, sincerely yours, Nigeria might not get out of the teething unemployment challenges.
Recently, NBTE and TETFUND organised a seminar for Rectors and Directors of Entrepreneurship Development in various Federal Polytechnics in Nigeria. It gladdens my heart to inform you that a sum of one hundred and thirty million Naira (N130M) has been approved for each of the Federal Polytechnic, specifically to strengthen skills acquisition initiatives.
What are the strategies you intend to deploy to achieve the set of skills development at the Federal Polytechnic, Ayede?
When you talk about skill acquisition, it is not theoretical stuff but built around vocation. It is not the volume of grammar spoken or the quantum of equations one can solve. It is about what you can do with your hands, and this is what matters now.
Sir, you invited the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) for the accreditation process with the presentation of thirteen courses, but only four were successfully accredited. Are there plans for other courses to be accredited any time soon?
Thank you! You need to understand that he who does not dare will never conquer. That was the story of the accreditation programme. We aimed very high, presenting thirteen courses. The presentation afforded us the opportunity of knowing what constitutes our strengths and weaknesses for the other eight not accredited courses. The report afforded us that auspicious opportunity, and we have left where they met us then. We believed by the time they come back again they will meet us readily improved.
How would you appraise the presence of the institution in this community and Ogbomoso in general?
Of course, when there is an institution in any community, it will bring about development. Despite the presence of this Polytechnic at the temporary campus, in Iresa-Pupa, the community is already benefiting in terms of patronage, economic boost, and exposure. The students and staff are already renting accommodation, as community members are also bearing witness to this development.
Even at the permanent sites, development is already springing up. Very recently, the then Council Chairman, Professor Dakas C. J. Dakas (SAN) led us to the permanent site. We have not less than eight structures already at various levels of completion. Certainly, after the completion, the community will experience development and economic boom.
Assuming it’s matriculation, what will be your message to the matriculants?
The motto of the school is Learning Dexterity and Moral. Learning is a continuous process and each student must devote themselves to learning to be useful. Dexterity is about skill acquisition that must be developed and improved upon steadily, while morality must be guided to be useful to society. A morally bankrupt person, whatever the volume of the knowledge, cannot be a useful member of any society.
That is why our focus is on learning blended with useful skills guarded by morality. My belief is, by God’s grace, before any student graduates from this Polytechnic, he or she must have developed and perfected at least two major skills.
Sir, looking into the crystal ball, in the next 5 years where would you place the Federal Polytechnic, Ayede?
By God’s grace, Federal Polytechnic, Ayede will stand unique among its peers and even, among older ones. Except for trying to be modest, our achievements, for instance, accessing TETFund interventions are outstanding compared to even older institutions. The polytechnic will thrive on innovation, skills, functional education, and international partnerships. Hopefully, in the next five years, this Polytechnic will be a positive point of reference.
(c) Mega Icon Magazine
The Rector of Federal Polytechnic, Ayede, Oyo State, Dr Taofeek Abdul-Hameed, has said that the institution’s recent accreditation as a Cisco Networking Academy Learning Centre will benefit students, staff, and the host communities, while also enhancing the school’s standing in the global digital space.
Dr Abdul-Hameed, in a statement issued on Wednesday by the institution’s Protocol and Public Relations Officer, Mr. Sunday Adepoju, described the feat as a major milestone in the polytechnic’s journey towards global academic relevance and digital innovation.
Cisco Systems Inc., a multinational technology conglomerate headquartered in San Jose, California, is a global leader in networking and information technology solutions.
Speaking on the development, the Rector said, “First and foremost, let me re-emphasise that our commitment to excellence at Federal Polytechnic, Ayede remains unwavering. The accreditation, granted by Cisco Systems, will enable the polytechnic to offer specialised training in key areas such as networking, cybersecurity, programming, data science, operating systems, digital literacy, and professional development.
“These programmes align with internationally recognised certifications and are designed to equip students with job-ready skills required in today’s fast-evolving digital economy.
“This accreditation is a major leap for our institution as it reflects our strategic focus on equipping students with practical, industry-relevant skills and reinforces our mission to become a centre of excellence in technology and innovation.”
Highlighting the benefits of the Cisco-accredited centre to the institution, Abdul-Hameed noted that the collaboration would enhance the polytechnic’s credibility and attract more prospective students, given the global recognition associated with Cisco certifications.
“Additionally, the institution can enrich its curriculum with up-to-date, industry-relevant learning materials provided by Cisco. It can also leverage Cisco’s vast resources, including training and support, to improve the overall quality of its academic programmes,” he said.
The Rector further stated that the staff of the institution would also benefit from the initiative through access to Cisco’s professional training opportunities, which would keep them abreast of emerging industry trends and technologies.
“Instructors can develop their skills and gain recognition within the industry, enhancing their career prospects. They can also build networks and collaborate with other professionals and partners through Cisco’s global platforms,” he added.
On the impact on students, Abdul-Hameed described them as the greatest beneficiaries of the new accreditation.
“Our students can now earn industry-recognised certifications that will improve their employability and career growth. They will also have access to career opportunities and networking events through Cisco’s global network,” he said.
He added that the host communities stand to gain from the scheme, particularly in terms of economic development and local partnerships.
“By producing a skilled workforce, the community becomes more attractive to businesses
Seeks FG’s Intervention on Infrastructure, Expansion
The Federal Polytechnic, Ayede, Oyo State, has reaffirmed its commitment to academic and infrastructural excellence as it formally admitted its third set of students during a matriculation ceremony held on Thursday at the TETFund Auditorium, Iresa-Pupa Temporary Campus.
No fewer than 574 students were officially admitted into the institution for the 2024/2025 academic session.
The event was well attended by distinguished guests, including the Executive Secretary of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), Professor Idris Bugaje, who was represented by Dr John Onyebuchi, Deputy Director, NBTE Southwest Zonal Office. The Federal Ministry of Education (FME) was also represented by Mallam Bala Adamu.
The traditional institution was represented by the Aresa-Pupa of Iresa-Pupa, Oba Moses Olayiwola Ajiboye JP, Ajiboye III. Other notable attendees included the Rector of Federal Polytechnic, Ede, Engr. (Dr) Sani Man Yahya, represented by the Deputy Rector (Academics), Alhaji I. A. Lawal; the Rector of Federal Polytechnic, Offa, Engr. (Dr) Kadiri Kamoru Oluwatoyin, represented by the Deputy Rector (Academics), Dr Mulikatu Aliu; and the Provost of the Federal College of Education, Iwo, Prof. R. A. Adebayo, represented by the Registrar, Alhaji Yusuf Aderibigbe among others.
Speaking at the event, the Rector of the Polytechnic, Dr. Taofeek Abdul-Hameed, congratulated the newly admitted students and reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to delivering quality technical and vocational education.
“You have earned your place here through hard work and dedication. Federal Polytechnic, Ayede, is committed to equipping you with the necessary knowledge and practical skills to thrive in your chosen careers,” he stated.
Dr Abdul-Hameed highlighted the rapid growth of the Polytechnic since its establishment in March 2021, noting that it was the first among the six newly created federal polytechnics to commence academic and administrative activities in June 2022.
He disclosed that the institution now has over 1,200 students, making it the most populated among its counterparts. It currently offers 12 accredited National Diploma (ND) programmes, with plans to introduce 29 additional programmes.
“The Office Technology and Management (OTM) programme will soon commence as its resource verification process is at an advanced stage,” he added.
The Rector further announced that the Polytechnic’s Academic Board had approved the results of its first graduating set, paving the way for its maiden convocation this year.
“A convocation ceremony to confer diplomas and prizes will be held this year, and the official date will be announced in due course,” he stated.
Addressing recent reports of a building collapse at the Polytechnic, Abdul-Hameed dismissed the claims as misleading, clarifying that no structure had collapsed on any of the institution’s campuses.
“What was falsely reported was a minor structural defect involving a cantilever under construction. The contractor is already addressing the issue under strict supervision,” he explained, urging the public to disregard the misinformation aimed at tarnishing the Polytechnic’s reputation.
While commending President Bola Tinubu for his administration’s support for education, the Rector urged the Federal Government to increase funding, particularly for infrastructure and research.
“We seek special intervention programmes to support our expansion efforts and the construction of access roads to improve connectivity,” he appealed.
He also acknowledged the contributions of the Federal Ministry of Education, TETFund, and the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) towards the Polytechnic’s growth. Continuing, he lauded Oyo State Governor, Engr Seyi Makinde, for his support and sought further assistance from the state government.
The Don advised the newly admitted students to embrace discipline, diligence, and innovation, urging them to take full advantage of the institution’s resources.
“The Polytechnic has provided you with the resources and a conducive environment to succeed. It is now your responsibility to make the most of this opportunity,” the Rector said.
The Federal Polytechnic Ayede, Oyo State, has announced that its 2024/2025 matriculation ceremony will take place on Thursday, 27th March 2025.
In a statement signed by the institution’s Protocols and Public Relations Officer, Mr Sunday Adepoju, on behalf of the Rector, Engr. Dr Taofeek Adekunle Abdul-Hameed, the event is scheduled to hold at the polytechnic’s temporary site in Iresa-Pupa, Surulere Local Government Area of Oyo State.
According to the statement, the academic procession will commence at 9:00 a.m., followed by the main ceremony at 10:00 a.m.
Established in 2021 under the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, Federal Polytechnic Ayede admitted its pioneer students in the 2022/2023 academic session. Initially, the institution commenced with four departments: Science Laboratory Technology, Computer Engineering Technology, Computer Science, and Statistics.
By the 2023/2024 academic session, the institution expanded its academic offerings with eight additional National Diploma (ND) programmes, increasing the total to 12. The newly introduced courses include Computer Engineering Technology, Electrical/Electronic Engineering Technology, Agricultural Technology, Science Laboratory Technology, Computer Science, Statistics, Tourism Management Technology, Estate Management and Valuation, Urban and Regional Planning, Accountancy, Business Administration and Management, and Public Administration.
These 12 ND programmes are structured under five academic schools, School of Agricultural Technology,School of Science and Technology, School of Engineering Technology, School of Environmental Technology and School of Management Sciences.
The institution also announced that the orientation programme for fresh students commenced on Tuesday, 25th March, and will continue on Wednesday, 26th March, at the Iresa-Pupa temporary site. The programme will feature addresses from distinguished scholars and professionals, providing guidance to the new students on academic and campus life.
Since its inception, Federal Polytechnic Ayede has recorded remarkable strides in academic excellence, infrastructural development, training and re-training, as well as sports and extracurricular activities.
