The House of Representatives Committee on Polytechnics and Higher Technical Education has urged Rectors of Federal Polytechnics to introduce innovative courses that leverage on regional resources.

The call was made during an oversight session with Rectors and staff from Federal Polytechnics in Kauran-Namoda, Bauchi, Kaltungo, and Bali.

Committee Chairman Fuad Kayode Laguda suggested that Federal Polytechnic Kauran-Namoda could offer courses in geology and mining, allowing students to gain skills relevant to local industries like gold mining.
He noted that such programs would provide a source of internally generated revenue and help address youth unemployment and insecurity.

Laguda also emphasized the potential for the courses to boost enrollment by fostering a strong academic reputation.
He highlighted that producing high-performing graduates would attract more students and build community confidence in the institution. The Rectors presented updates on staffing, budgets, and facilities.

Federal Polytechnic Bauchi, established in 1976, currently has over 2,000 staff and 11,000 students across 36 programs. Federal Polytechnic Kaltungo, founded in 2019, has 500 staff members and offers 11 programs for 300 students.

Chairman Laguda explained that the oversight session was held at the National Assembly rather than onsite due to security concerns, noting previous attacks on officials. He emphasized the need to complete oversight within the set timeline, despite challenges in visiting individual campuses.