The Nigeria Polytechnic Games would not be impacted by the Federal Government’s plan to align university degrees with Higher National Diplomas granted by polytechnics, as Education Minister Dr. Tunji Alausa has affirmed.
As the government works to resolve the HND/University Degree dichotomy, Alausa stressed that the polytechnic games will proceed as scheduled during the opening ceremony of the 22nd Nigeria Polytechnic Games, with the theme “Ijakadi 2025,” held at the Federal Polytechnic, Offa, Kwara State.
“Despite the government’s efforts to streamline the education sector, NIPOGA will persist,” the minister said, speaking on behalf of Dr. Ejeh Usman, Director of Polytechnic and Allied Education at the Federal Ministry of Education. Polytechnics will continue to be a part of our educational system, we promise.
In support of a more comprehensive dual mandate for these institutions, he added that polytechnics that wish to provide degree programs might request for accreditation from the National Universities Commission and the National Board for Technical Education.
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Commenting on the NIPOGA’s effective planning in Offa, Dr. Usman affirmed the Ministry’s complete support for the occasion. The message from the minister is one of encouragement for all participating polytechnics, schools, and rectors. Since games and education go hand in hand, it is imperative that sports be supported in the classroom.
The Federal Polytechnic’s rector, Offa Kadiri Kamoru, emphasized the school’s noteworthy accomplishments, including obtaining the permission to host the 22nd NIPOGA Games for the first time in more than thirty years.
The event, which featured 12 sports and over 5,000 participants, was hailed as historic and featured statewide TV coverage to highlight Nigeria’s sporting ability. He thanked stakeholders for their leadership and support.
Alhaji Moshood Ojikutu, the Chairman of the Federal Polytechnic’s Offa Governing Council, and Senator Lola Ashiru, who represents the Kwara South Senatorial District, also emphasized the significance of the athletic event in fostering solidarity among Nigerian youth.
