By: Adeniji Sodiq Ademola
In a press conference held today Monday January 15th, 2023 at the Assembly Hall, North Campus, the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnic (ASUP), The Polytechnic , Ibadan Chapter, has urged the Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, to adhere to the National Board of Technical Education (NBTE) guidelines in appointing the next Rector of the institution. The Union made this known to the public at its comeback anniversary.
Dr. Kola Lawal, the Chairman of the Union, emphasized the importance of appointing Chief Lecturers from within the Polytechnic sector, highlighting past challenges arising from the appointment of university professors from Ladoke Akintola University of Technology since the past twenty five years. Dr. Lawal stressed that the Polytechnic system requires leaders who understand its unique dynamics, advocating for a move that aligns with NBTE regulations and fosters stability and growth.
According to him, “the practice of appointing a reader or professor from a university not only contradicts the recent guidelines of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) but also disrupts the efficient functioning of the Polytechnic system.
“In accordance with the NBTE guidelines, only Chief Lecturers currently working within the Polytechnic sector are eligible to lead Polytechnics as Rectors. Fortunately, The Polytechnic, Ibadan can boast of several highly qualified Chief Lecturers and PhD holders within its ranks. These individuals have dedicated their careers to the Polytechnic system and possess a profound understanding of its unique dynamics.
“We firmly believe that appointing a Rector from among our own Chief Lecturers will not only align with regulatory requirements but will also contribute to the stability, growth, and sustained excellence of our institution. Moreover, such an appointment would reflect a commitment to nurturing and promoting talent within the Polytechnic sector”.
The Union also called on the State Government to address the shortage of academic staff, proposing the conversion of teaching assistants into full academic positions to mitigate the challenges faced by the institution’s current academic staff.
Additionally, the lecturers sought intervention from Governor Seyi Makinde in reviewing the role of Platinum Consultant, expressing concerns about the consultant’s impact on decision-making within the institution. They raised issues about delays in approving essential items and facilities, hindering the institution’s overall quality of education.
While expressing gratitude for the ongoing review of the new minimum wage, ASUP acknowledged the financial challenges confronting the institution. They appealed to the Oyo State Government for a monthly subvention that covers staff salaries, running costs, and a dedicated capital grant for critical infrastructure development.
The Union emphasized that addressing these financial concerns is crucial for securing the future of academic excellence at The Polytechnic, Ibadan, and ensuring its continued legacy as a leading institution in Nigerian polytechnic education.
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