The Federal Ministry of Education. has directed the newly inaugurated governing councils to resume and complete the processes initiated by the previous councils, particularly the appointment of key Principal Officers. In addition, the councils are asked to support managements in organizing free and fair elections for internal members of the governing councils. This position was contained in an address by the Director Polytechnic and Allied Institutions, Federal Ministry of Education presented by the director during the inauguration the governing councils of universities, polytechnics and other federal tertiary institutions on Thursday. The inauguration came barely one year after the government dissolved the governing councils of all of its tertiary institutions, leaving them to operate without governing councils.
FULL TEXT OF ADDRESS OF THE DIRECTOR POLYTECHNIC AND ALLIED INSTITUTIONS DEPARTMENT FEDERAL MINISTRY OF EDUCATION AT THE INAUGURATION/RETREAT CEREMONY OF THE GOVERNING COUNCILS OF FEDERAL POLYTECHNICS ON JUNE, 2024
It is with great pleasure and a deep sense of responsibility that I stand before you today on this momentous occasion of the inauguration of the new council members of our Federal Polytechnics. This day marks a significant milestone in the governance and future direction of our esteemed institutions. For the past year, we have faced numerous challenges due to the absence of active governing councils. This gap in governance has had its impacts, and we recognize the stress it has placed on our institutions, particularly concerning the tenure of principal officers and the continuity of essential processes.
However, today signifies a new dawn- a renewal of commitment to excellence, stability, and progressive leadership. Congratulations on your appointment. Your selection is a testament to your expertise, integrity, and dedication to the advancement of Education particularly Technical and Vocational Education in our great country. As you assume your roles, you are not only stepping into positions of governance but also into roles of stewardship and vision The work ahead of you is vital and multifaceted.
One of your immediate tasks will be to resume and complete the processes initiated by the previous councils, particularly the appointment of key Principal Officers. This continuity is crucial to maintain the stability and operational efficiency of our institutions. We trust in your ability to navigate these responsibilities with diligence and foresight. The institutions affected have advertised and harvested the applications waiting for further actions. You are to complete the process adhering strictly to the Federal Polytechnic Act (2019) as amended and the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) guidelines on appointment of Principal Officers. Please, note that applications are closed for such institutions as no fresh application should be accepted after the closing date. In addition to your governance duties, your support to the management in organizing a free and fair elections for internal members of the governing council is paramount. These elections are essential for ensuring that our institutions are not only led by capable external members but are also guided by the insights and experiences of those within our academic community. A collaborative approach will strengthen our decision processes and enhance the quality of education we offer.Making.
The Federal Polytechnics are pillars of innovation, skill development, and economic empowerment which is t he main focus of the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR. Your leadership will be instrumental in driving initiatives that align with our national goals of industrialization and sustainable development. I urge you to embrace this role with a spirit of collaboration, transparency, and unwavering commitment to the highest standards of educational excellence, to actualize the renewed hope agenda of Mr. President, considering the ministerial deliverables and the pillars of the Nigeria Education Se ctor Roadmap. Your resilience and dedication over the past year have been commendable. As we welcome the new council, let us all pledge our support and cooperation. Together, we will work towards a shared vision of transforming our polytechnics into hubs of cutting edge research, technical prowess, and societal advancement.
In conclusion, let us celebrate this new beginning with optimism and resolve. The journey ahead will undoubtedly present challenges, but with unity and a clear focus on our objectives, we will achieve remarkable milestones. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has contributed to making this day possible and to those who will continue to drive our institutions forward. Our doors are always open for consultations and counselling for improved service delivery Congratulations once again to our new council members. May your tenure be marked by impactful decisions, strategic growth, and the continued elevat ion of our Federal Polytechnics. Thank you. Recall that President Bola Tinubu, in June 2023, shortly after being sworn in as president, announced the dissolution of governing councils of federal tertiary institutions.