Editor
By Fatima Saka
The Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TETFUND has emphasized that the proposed establishment of the Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education, Owerri, and the Federal Polytechnic, Onueke, Ezza South, Ebonyi State, will unlock the potential of many young Nigerians by fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and workforce skills across diverse sectors.
Speaking during a one-day public hearing on the establishment bills in Abuja on Thursday, Senator Dandutse Muntari Muhammed, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TETFUND, underscored the importance of these bills in enhancing access to quality higher education and strengthening Nigeria’s capacity to produce skilled graduates across various disciplines.
In his opening remarks, Senator Muhammed stated: “The Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education, Owerri (Establishment) Bill, 2024 (SB. 155) represents a transformative step aimed at improving teacher training and advancing educational research across the nation. Our objective is to fortify the teacher education pipeline, ensuring educators are equipped to shape future generations with knowledge, ethics, and competence. Quality education hinges on the caliber of its teachers, and this transformation is a critical move toward securing excellence.”
On the second bill, the Federal Polytechnic Onueke, Ezza South, Ebonyi State (Establishment) Bill, 2024 (SB. 71), Senator Muhammed remarked:
“The proposed polytechnic addresses the educational and technical needs of Ebonyi State and Nigeria as a whole. It aims to provide technical and vocational education, equipping our youth with the practical skills needed to thrive in a competitive global economy. By fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and workforce expertise, this institution will serve as a vital tool for unlocking the potential of countless young Nigerians.”
The Senator emphasized that both bills align with the government’s broader agenda to strengthen the education sector, reduce unemployment, and improve socio-economic conditions.
“The establishment of these institutions will act as catalysts for economic development, offering young Nigerians pathways to academic excellence and practical empowerment.”
He urged all participants to approach the hearing with purpose, engaging constructively to ensure that the final legislation reflects the aspirations of Nigerians and contributes meaningfully to the development of the nation’s education system.
“Let us strive to ensure these bills, when enacted, deliver on their promises and significantly advance our country’s education landscape,” Senator Muhammed concluded.
