The Importance of Technical Education for National Development: Insights from Ilaro Poly Rector
By DAYO ADESULU
In a recent public lecture, Dr. Mukail Akinde, the Rector of Federal Polytechnic Ilaro, emphasized the critical role of technical education as a powerful instrument for national development. The event was hosted by the Centre for Information Communication and Public Relations at Yaba College of Technology, honoring the contributions of former Director Dr. Omobayo Taofeek Raheem. Themed “Technical Education and National Development: The Place of AI, Its Credibility, Trust, and Transparency,” the lecture drew significant attention.
Dr. Akinde highlighted that technical education encompasses both academic and vocational training, specifically designed for careers in applied sciences, modern technology, and hands-on professions. Unlike general education, which is broader in focus, technical education is career-oriented, equipping students with job-specific skills that are highly sought after in various industries.
The Rector pointed out that as the global economy becomes increasingly technology-driven, the importance of technical education in workforce development cannot be overstated. “Technical education is vital for national development,” he stated, “as it provides the necessary practical skills and knowledge to stimulate economic growth, industrialization, and technological advancement.” He further asserted that nations with robust technical education systems tend to enjoy higher productivity and improved living standards, owing to the availability of skilled professionals across key sectors.
As the chairman of the lecture, Dr. Akinde also discussed the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) in fields such as healthcare, finance, education, and public administration. He stressed the need for credibility, trust, and transparency in the ethical implementation of AI technologies. He encouraged collaboration among developers, ethicists, policymakers, and end users to ensure that AI not only excels technically but also aligns with ethical and social values.
The guest lecturer, Kolade-Otitoju, represented by Mr. Dotun Oladipupo, CEO of Premium Eagle Media Ltd., shared insights on how technical education fosters innovation and equips students with essential employability skills. He noted that effective training programs often include practical experiences, internships, and strong industry connections, ensuring that graduates are workforce-ready. “In many countries, technical education professionals thrive by solving real-world problems and significantly contributing to their national economies,” he remarked.
Otitoju also highlighted the importance of purposeful internships, arguing that the experience gained during these periods is crucial for shaping successful careers. He lamented the tendency in Nigeria to overvalue certification while undervaluing practical skills, which he believes hampers national development and discourages the pursuit of technical education. He urged President Ahmed Bola Tinubu to sign legislation that addresses disparities between Higher National Diploma (HND) and Bachelor’s degree holders and to increase funding for technical education to inspire more young Nigerians.
Additionally, he emphasized the vital role of AI in technical institutions, advocating for its thoughtful application to enhance relevance in the workplace.
Dr. Engr. Ibraheem Abdul, Rector of Yaba College of Technology, acknowledged the institution’s commitment to promoting technical and vocational education as a cornerstone of nation-building. He recognized the transformative effects of technical education in various sectors, including teaching and governance, stating, “It is enabling smart solutions, automating systems, and reshaping how we train future professionals.”
Mr. Ayodele Aroge, South West Zonal Director of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), criticized Nigeria’s fixation on certificates, asserting that skills are equally essential for progress. “The NBTE promotes skill over degrees,” he affirmed, advocating for polytechnics to offer Bachelor’s degrees in technical education, emphasizing that no country can develop without valuing technical education and skills.
The lecture not only celebrated Dr. Raheem’s impactful leadership but also provided a platform to discuss the evolving significance of technical education and AI in driving national development. The event underscored the need for strategic reforms, ethical innovation, and enhanced collaboration among institutions to pave the way for a more prosperous Nigeria.
