Federal Polytechnic Daura, local government area of Katsina State, convocated 408 graduates on Saturday across 11 departments.
The expanded academic framework encompassed six schools including Engineering, Environmental Studies, Agricultural Technology, Business and Management Sciences, Science and Technology, and Vocational Skills Development as it offered 32 programmes designed to meet Nigeria’s evolving industrial and technological needs.
Rector of the Polytechnic, Prof. Aliyu Mamman spoke of the institution’s remarkable growth, “Today, we graduate 408 students across 11 departments, a testament to our commitment to technical and vocational excellence.
“The expanded academic framework now encompasses six schools: Engineering, Environmental Studies, Agricultural Technology, Business and Management Sciences, Science and Technology, and Vocational Skills Development, offering 32 programs designed to meet Nigeria’s evolving industrial and technological needs”.
The rector also appealed to Governor Radda and other stakeholders on the pressing challenges facing the institution, particularly environmental threats to its infrastructure.
He called for urgent intervention to secure the perimeter fence and protect the hub of learning.
Mamman also appealed for additional federal support to address funding gaps, streamline statutory documentation, and bolster security.
Katsina State Governor, Dikko Radda, affirmed his administration’s commitment to technical and vocational education as a solution to youth unemployment.
He harped on the importance of practical, hands-on learning that directly aligns with the needs of industries and businesses.
According to Radda, “Our approach ensures that individuals are not only prepared for the demands of the job market but are also empowered to contribute meaningfully to economic growth and development. By integrating theoretical knowledge with real-world application, we are cultivating a workforce that is both competent and adaptable.
“We have made a firm commitment to prioritise technical and vocational education in our secondary schools. We are taking significant steps to rebuild, modernise, and expand skill acquisition across the State, including the upgrade of the Youth Craft Village and the establishment of 10 additional skill acquisition centers.
“Proactive strategies are designed to equip our young people with practical, efficient, and industry-relevant skills across various technical fields. By investing in these infrastructures, we are investing in the future of our youth and in the economic vitality of Katsina State.”
“In addition to technical education, we have embarked on the construction and rehabilitation of various schools, recruited thousands of dedicated teachers, and resolved the long-standing backlog of bursary awards to students in tertiary institutions from 2021 to date”, the Governor said.
Radda equally mentioned securing “a permanent site for the newly established Federal University of Health Sciences in Funtua, a testament to our unwavering commitment to advancing higher education in Katsina State.
“Our government remains resolutely dedicated to providing support and resources to all federal tertiary institutions within our state, including the esteemed Federal Polytechnic. We are committed to fostering an environment that nurtures academic excellence, innovation, and holistic development”, he declared.
Similarly, the governor disclosed, “I have discussed with the Chairman of TETFund regarding the issue raised by the Director, and I am pleased to inform you that TETFund has assured us they will provide the necessary funding to address it.”
The event was attended by notable government officials, traditional rulers and academics, including Deputy Governor Faruk Lawal Jobe, Emir of Daura, HRH Faruk Umar Faruk among others.
