Tinubu: Skills, not just certificates, will drive Nigeria’s future

President Bola Tinubu emphasized the importance of investing in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), arguing that skill development is essential for Nigeria’s economic recovery and the empowerment of its youth.

He delivered these remarks during the combined convocation ceremony and the 70th anniversary celebration of Kaduna Polytechnic, which took place at the campus in Kaduna on Saturday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that the anniversary marked the graduation of 60,803 students from the 2015/2016 to 2024/2025 academic sessions.

Represented by the Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad, the president stated that the era of relying solely on academic certificates for success has ended.

He urged the graduates to adopt entrepreneurship, innovation, and practical skills to remain competitive in a rapidly changing global economy.

President Tinubu affirmed that the federal government remains committed to strengthening educational institutions and creating opportunities for young Nigerians through initiatives that foster learning, innovation, and enterprise.

He highlighted programmes such as the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) and the Students’ Venture Initiative as key components of the Renewed Hope Agenda that promote self‑reliance.

The president also called on Kaduna Polytechnic’s management to leverage digital opportunities to enhance learning and position the institution for global competitiveness.

In his address, Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State reiterated his administration’s dedication to education and skills development.

He announced plans to build a modern theatre and improve access roads across the institution’s campuses.

Additionally, Governor Sani donated N50 million towards the convocation and commissioned a new lecture theatre complex.

He appealed to alumni, private organisations, and well‑meaning Nigerians to support educational development nationwide.

Earlier, the polytechnic’s rector, Dr Suleiman Umar, stated that the institution remains focused on producing graduates who create jobs and solve problems, rather than merely seeking employment.

Umar disclosed that among the 60,803 graduates, 1,725 earned distinctions, 13,920 received upper credits, 35,127 obtained lower credits, 9,856 passed, and an additional 175 received certificates.

Chairman of the Governing Council, Dr Oluwakemi Pinheiro, urged graduates to prioritise value creation and entrepreneurship.

He announced scholarships for 152 students funded from his personal allowances and praised the management and staff for maintaining quality education.

The Registrar, Muhammad Tanimu, announced fellowships for several distinguished Nigerians, including Education Minister Dr Tunji Alausa; Minister of State for Education Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad; Hadiza Bala Usman; Governor Uba Sani; and the Emir of Zazzau, Malam Nuhu Bamalli.

Responding on behalf of the awardees, the Emir of Zazzau thanked the institution for the honour and urged graduates to uphold discipline and the values of Kaduna Polytechnic. (NAN)

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