President Bola Tinubu, represented by the Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, emphasized the critical role of Nigerian graduates in advancing the country’s technological standing.
Speaking during the combined convocation ceremony of the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Anambra State, Tinubu urged graduates in technical and technological fields to ensure that Nigeria keeps pace with global technological advancements.
The 19th convocation of the institution celebrated graduates spanning the academic sessions from 2010–2011 to 2020–2021.
Tinubu highlighted the transformative impact of science and technology on the labor market, with the emergence of Artificial Intelligence as a global player presenting new challenges.
In his address, “We live in the era of Science and Technology. With technical revolution and innovations in science and technology, labour-market needs have significantly evolved.
“Artificial Intelligence has emerged as a new global player and has thrown up new challenges. As a nation we must ensure our relevance in the global landscape and set the stage for long term progress and prosperity. We cannot afford to lag behind in the global technological development.
“I therefore call on you as graduates in technical and technological field to rise up to the challenge.”
He noted that the Nigerian government is not relenting in developing the science and technology base of the nation.
“As a government, we are aware of the role and impact of quality education with respect to science and technological development.
“It can never be overstated that education is the key to this. This informed governments unwavering commitment to the educational growth of our nation. Government has made giant strides in the funding of education and will continue to do so,” the President added.
Earlier, the Rector of the Polytechnic, Dr Francisca Nwafulugo, had enumerated some of the challenges facing the institution.