The Federal Polytechnic, Ado-Ekiti, Alumni Association, (FEDPAAA), has called for the establishment of a National Polytechnic Commission and an improved funding for Polytechnic Education in Nigeria.
The body which appealed to President Bola Tinubu to look into various issues relating to polytechnic education in Nigeria also urged him to upgrade Polytechnics to degree-awarding institutions and removr dichotomy between HND and BSc certificate holders.
This was contained in the communique issued at the end of the inaugural Annual General Meeting of the association held in Part Harcourt, Rivers State.
The FEDPAAA National President, Surv. Dr. Oyedokun Augustine Abiodun in his address said, “appointing people with Polytechnic Education to committees and panels that formulate policies on polytechnic education in Nigeria among other demands made would enhance the development of polytechnic education in the country.”
He expressed gratitude to the institution’s leadership, recognized the contributions of the past Rector’s in laying the Alumni Foundation and support the polytechnic.
The AGM hosted by Major Ken Ukwu (Rtd)-led Rivers State chapter, coincided with the chapter’s 10th anniversary with the theme: “Alumni Contribution To Nation Development As It Strengthens Our National Unity.”
Major Ukwu in his welcome address, acknowledged the significance of the milestone for the Association.
The Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Ado-Ekiti, Engr. Dr Temitope John Alake , an alumnus himself , while delivering the AGM keynote Lecture explored the pivotal role of Alumni in driving national development, fostering economic stability and strengthening national unity amidst diversity.
Alake advocated for collaborative efforts among alumni to addressing challenges of leadership, economic instability and nation disunity among alumni.
He also called for unified approach leverage diversity as a strength, inspiring a collective drive towards sustainable national development.
In a related another development, Alumni association organised an event in honour and celebrate the 5th substantive Rector of the polytechnic, Dr Taiwo Theresa Akande for her positive impacts on the institution, staff and students during her administration.
During the event, held at the Alumni building of the association, located within the main campus of the polytechnic in Ado Ekiti, the FEDPAAA National President, Surv. Dr. Oyedokun Abiodun said her time was a period of significant growth and transformation for the institution.
He said, ” She believed in us, the product of this great institution. Her unwavering faith in our abilities led to the employment of many alumni, providing us with opportunities to contribute to the growth of our alma mater.
“Dr Akande’s leadership was characterized by empathy, understanding and genuine desire to uplift others . She went beyond the call to duty, supporting students in need and extending a helping hands to those who were struggling. Her kindness and compassion have touched the lives of countless individuals”.
A cheque of one million, food items and other materials were presented to Mrs Akande by the alumni association in appreciate of her good deeds to them.
In her response, the former Rector expressed her deep gratitude to all FEDPAAA members for the honour accorded her.
“It was a surprise which completely blindsided my children and I. By this beautiful, selfless gestures of kindness, empathy and consideration, you have all sown very significant seeds whose fruits you will continue to reap all lifelong and which your children and generation yet unborn will also reap from in the mercy and goodness of Most High.”
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