Abuja, Nigeria – March 18, 2025 – The Rector of Federal Polytechnic Monguno, Professor Garba Muhammad Ngala, has emphasized that polytechnic education holds the key to solving Nigeria’s rising youth unemployment.
Speaking during an official event, Professor Ngala highlighted the urgent need for the country to shift focus from traditional university education to skill-based, technical training that aligns with the demands of the job market.
Polytechnic Education vs University Education: A Call for Change
The rector expressed concern that many Nigerian graduates struggle to secure jobs despite holding degrees from universities. He attributed this problem to the theoretical nature of most university programs, which often leave graduates without the hands-on skills needed to thrive in industries.
“The challenge we face today is not just about the number of graduates but the type of education they receive. Many university graduates complete their studies without acquiring practical skills that employers demand,” he stated.
He explained that polytechnics focus on equipping students with technical and vocational skills that prepare them for self-employment and industry-based careers, reducing dependence on white-collar jobs.
The Rising Youth Unemployment Crisis in Nigeria
Professor Ngala pointed out that youth unemployment in Nigeria is reaching alarming levels, making it a national emergency that must be addressed through education reform.
According to recent statistics, millions of Nigerian graduates remain jobless, not because of a lack of opportunities, but because their education did not prepare them for the realities of the job market.
“If we truly want to reduce unemployment, we must promote technical education, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Polytechnic education does not just teach students theories but prepares them to become job creators rather than job seekers,” he added.
Government and Private Sector Must Invest in Polytechnic Education
To fully unlock the potential of polytechnic education, the rector called on the government, private organizations, and educational stakeholders to:
- Invest in upgrading polytechnic facilities and laboratories to ensure students receive world-class training.
- Develop strong partnerships between polytechnics and industries to bridge the gap between education and employment.
- Encourage entrepreneurship programs within polytechnics to equip students with the skills to start their own businesses.
“The industries need workers who can operate machinery, develop technology, and solve real-world problems. Polytechnic graduates are trained to do just that. More investment in this sector will transform Nigeria’s economy and create jobs for our youth,” he emphasized.
Conclusion: Polytechnic Education is the Future
Professor Ngala’s message is clear—for Nigeria to effectively tackle youth unemployment, it must take polytechnic education seriously.
With the 2025 JAMB UTME approaching, thousands of students will be seeking admission into higher institutions. The rector urged parents and students to consider polytechnic education as a viable path to success, rather than focusing solely on university admission.
As Nigeria struggles with a growing unemployment crisis, experts believe that a stronger polytechnic system could be the game-changer the country needs—a system that produces graduates who are ready to work, innovate, and build the future.