The Minister of Education, Olatunji Alausa, has urged the National Assembly to prioritize increased budget allocations for existing educational institutions rather than establishing new ones. His remarks came during a public hearing held by the House of Representatives Committee on Federal Polytechnics and Higher Technical Education in Abuja.
Alausa presented a memorandum addressing three proposed bills, including one aimed at establishing a Federal College of Entrepreneurship and Skills Acquisition in Hawul, Borno State. He expressed opposition to this initiative, advocating instead for equitable distribution of federal institutions across states, noting that no state should have more than one federal polytechnic.
Highlighting the importance of focusing resources on quality education, Alausa stated, “With limited resources, we must prioritize quality over quantity.” He emphasized that many students have been kept in custody for years without trial, stressing the need for a more effective approach to education.
The Minister also suggested suspending discussions on the proposed college due to the current economic climate, advocating instead for consolidating support for existing institutions.
While he raised no objections to proposed amendments to the Federal Polytechnics Act, Alausa expressed concern about including representatives from the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) and the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) on the Governing Council of Polytechnics, arguing their roles do not align with the council’s responsibilities.
Rep. Usman Balami, who sponsors the bill, defended the need for the college, citing rising unemployment and insecurity in Borno as critical issues. He described the institution as essential for equipping youth with necessary skills for self-reliance and economic empowerment.
