During a recent online meeting, Dr. Oyedokun Abiodun, the National President of the Federal Polytechnic Ado Ekiti Alumni Association, emphasized the need for President Bola Tinubu to implement degree-awarding status for polytechnics in Nigeria. The call comes as the alumni body prepares for its third Annual General Meeting themed around enhancing human capital development through collaboration between polytechnics and their alumni. Dr. Abiodun voiced hope that the resolution of the longstanding dichotomy between Higher National Diploma (HND) and Bachelor of Science (BSc) degrees will be a historic achievement for President Tinubu.

Highlighting the implications of this dichotomy, he expressed that the proposed changes would not only elevate the status of polytechnic graduates but also align the educational qualifications in Nigeria's labor market. This comes in response to criticisms that the current system undermines the capabilities of polytechnic graduates compared to their university counterparts. By calling for equal recognition, Abiodun advocates for an educational reform that would enhance the quality and relevance of technical education in the country.

The association’s upcoming AGM scheduled for February 21 in Asaba, Delta State, aims to leverage discussions around these important educational reforms and their potential impact on Nigeria’s economy. With themes centered on transitioning from educational institutions to a circular economy, the alumni body hopes to foster greater synergy between current students and alumni, ultimately contributing to meaningful socioeconomic development in Nigeria.