Nigerians and Africans names Mateflick the new social media

MATEFLICK, one of the social media network to look out for in the year 2020 has officially launched its operation on 20^th of February 2020 at the Yaba College of Technology Lagos.  Students present at the unveiling of the network laud the initiative. 

Mr Emmanuel Akpakwu Founder/CEO Mateflick, claims the social media app will be more beneficial to students and youths. Just like Facebook, Instagram and Twitter the app will connect users together allow them to share images and videos but without the pressure of wanting people to like your post.

Users can be matched at random and friends are suggested, the app is pretty for meeting someone new. The application comes with a new slogan is let’s Flick.

The app caters to the needs of social media influencers, photographers, businesses, and videographers.

Mrs Mercy Omowunmi Ojo, Registrar Dental Therapist Registration Board gets Inducted into NAPS Hall of Fame as a TrailBlazer.

Mrs Mercy O. Ojo the Registrar of Dental Therapist Registration Board of Nigeria, a technocrat, great philantropist and a Mother  has been indected into the HALL OF FAME  by National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS) on 12th June, 2018 for outstanding economic contribution and human capital development.

The honour which is the highest honor of the association was conferred on he at her office in Lagos by NAPS officials in a delegation that cut across the six geo- political zones of Nigeria.

The leader of the delegation said the honour is in recognition of the empowerment of youth through the numerous capacity development initiatives being carried out by the recipient, Mrs Mercy O. Ojo, the lives she is touching as well as her positive impacts to the society.

He told the award recipient that  haven confirm her to be an honourable person with honourable deeds the association is glad to be associated with her and many of her likes will be neededtp repositio the country Nigeria. The NAPS official said they are impressed with her great works and detribalized disposition.

He said the honour is based on merit and encouraged the recipient to continue to do more of het laudable human capacity building initiative towards making Nigeria better at large.

NAPS said having beamed its searchlight in the realm of technocrats across the Country, they spotlighted a rear gem, definition of integrity, a profound youth and students emancipator, an unsurpassed philanthropist, a diligent technocrat, someone who abhors social suppression and one who embraces social coexistence in person of Mrs Mercy O. Ojo.
They commended her humility, ingenuity in  her professional prowess and transcendent contribution in the sustenance  of the Dental sector.

NAPS said Mrs Mercy has remained a mother to students and youths and they have heard of her assistances to students, youths and needy hence the honour is to spur her to do more.
They said she has outgrown the restrictions of tribe, social status, region and religion in the display of her  magnanimous benevolence.

The sand of time has recorded successfully the contributions to human capacity development, national integration, economic progress, institutional strengthening and national reformation NAPS said.

The honour is in recognition of her unsurpassed performance in her leadership style, determination for workable Nigeria, resilience in the quest for academic revolution, concerted efforts in ensuring peace development, human capital development and unprecedented action plan for the progress of our economy.

Speech of NAPS National Secretariat, given by Cmr. Olubode Damola who eulogized the award recipient for her human capacity building development drive. He further assures her that her fight is now the fight of the association, you battle is our battle and your joy is our smile he said.
They also made a clarion call to the Federal Government and critical stakeholders to ensure the monstrous injustice called HND/BSC dichotomy is nipped permanently in the bud.

The recipient said the honour came to her as a surprise and thanked the Students for finding her worthy for such meritorious honor.

She said she never knew that the little things she is doing are being recognized, appreciated and celebrated by people. She admonished the youths to trust in God, be hardworking, remain focused and ensure they refuse peanuts from politicians who will want to misuse them for their parochial political interests.

She urged them to avoid use and dump politicians who will want them to do what their children wouldn’t do. She promised to always support the youths to ensure they are improved at appreciable levels.
“I will continue to empower and support youth, our great leaders and engine room of our development not minding what people say” Mrs Ojo said.
She said the youths must be ready to tell her the truth whenever she is wrong.

She dedicated the honour to the youths, and all staffs of theDental Registration Board of Nigeria who has mad it possible for her reign to be successful, and thanked those present to witness the award presentation.

Mrs Mercy O. Ojo was later inducted into NAPS Hall of fame after receiving her certificate of induction and decoration by NAPS National VP who charged her to bring in her wealth of experience towards developing the entire Ministry of health, as we hope to see her become the next Minister of Health.
He congratulated the recipient.

APPEAL FOR THE COMPLETE ABOLISHMENT OF HND/BSc DICHOTOMY AND IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PAST & PRESENT RESOLUTIONS OF THE NATIONAL COUNCIL OF ESTABLISHMENT

We, the (NAPS) National Association of Polytechnic Students and (CCHH) Coalition of Concerned HND Holders brings to the notice of all Nigerians the contributions made by the Higher National Diploma (HND) graduates over the years to the growth of Science and Technology, and for many years how we have been grossly marginalised and side-lined by the Federal Government, especially the various ministers of education, who have failed to act on our behalf to address our complaints, as we see the Minister of Interior in July 2017, removing the dichotomy in all paramilitary services, which his power covers, (HND and BSc. Regularizes already you can find out) why the double standard in the same country.

The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) had at various times voiced out and protested about the treatment of HND graduates in all sectors of the Nigerian labour market, yet nothing has been done. Polytechnic education is now being regarded as vocational studies, as witnessed by several professional bodies that have refused to recognise HND, yet accredit the same courses of study at the Polytechnics.

The HND/BSC dichotomy still survive this long due to poor or no implementation of policy statement. Struggle against HND/BSC dichotomy has always record tremendous victory in its agitation, but are faced with execution challenges from conscienceless power in authority.Several pronouncements of  the abolishment of the dichotomy but the development are massively stampeded by cabals who derive joy in the unwarranted superiority contest of the duo certificate.

Its imperative we  remind the Head of Service (HoS) and the National Council on Establishment (NCE) that there is public knowledge of various resolutions being reached at their various meetings in time past, including the last one in 2016 which has never been captured in the communiqué not to talk of implementing such, the few that ever saw the light of the day, such as abolishing the HND/BSc dichotomy at the 39th session of the council dated 18th to 22nd July 2016 cannot be implemented since the HoS has not seen the need to forward same to the Federal Executive Council for ratification and full implementation by all government agencies.

NAPS as a body knows that it is not all resolution reached at the 39th council meeting that was printed as a paper or communiqué that is ever available in circulation.
Such as
1.) Approval of the removal of the dichotomy in the public sector as it affects the bridging programme-Post Graduate Diploma (PGD) to enable them progress to grade level 17.
2.) The review of the scheme to enable HND Certificate holders to reach the maximum grade in the civil service upon completion of the bridging programme.
We will appreciate the immediate release of the circular as it affects the entry levels into the Federal Civil Service and appeal that the FEC also ratifies all resolutions made at the last NCE council.
These resolutions when implemented fully will be the beginning of the journey to full consideration of what scientific and technical education really stand for, it will affect the morale of millions of Nigerian workers who for years have been side lined due to their academic qualification. These are workers that have been demoralised and stagnated, even though they excel in their various fields.
This discrimination is most prevalent in the construction industry, especially in the field of architecture where the government regulatory body ARCON has refused to accredit or acknowledge the qualifications of the HND graduates. These graduates are subjected to humiliating 6 year duration of qualifying Professional Practice Examinations (PPE Finals 1, 2 and 3) by the Nigeria Institute of Architects (NIA), while the current executives of ARCON have refused to register candidates that have passed all qualifying exams. ARCON has continually disregarded and refused to recognise the PGD in Architecture run by accredited universities in Nigeria, even with the NCE approving PGD as a bridging programme. Those who have done the bridging programme are still denied the chance to write the PPE Finals 3, while the civil service regulation only recognises BSc as the foundation for Architects in Nigeria.
As NCE council meeting is on going in Owerri, in her 40th assembly, it is noteworthy to emphasis on the need to capture properly in their communiqué the removal of HND BSc dichotomy through the bridge program (PGD) as reached in the 39th meeting in Minna. Also hopping to see what the engineers has achieved for her members in terms of placement and remuneration which we are not even sure it will not go in the way of the previous resolutions.
NAPS leadership hereby strongly implore President Mohamadu Buhari not to leave our future in the hand of NCE, Head of Service of the Federation, Ministers, head of Parastaters and the rest of them, thereby he should step into this matter and put things straight as the Executive President, we can't afford to graduate only to join the injustice melted upon HND graduates in the labour market  name of dichotomy.
We  hereby appeal and urge the HoS to put an end to this by rewriting the history books and enabling change in the direction of progressive development, which will truly begin by emancipating HND graduates and harnessing their full potentials for National Development.
The removal of this dichotomy, among other perceived institutionalised and discriminatory policies has been at the top of a list of demands by ASUP and has been the motivation for several industrial crises in both the public and private sectors. The bill seeking to stop this age long dichotomy has passed the second reading in the House of Representatives and we will urge that this bill be passed into law expediently.
We are calling for the autonomy of Polytechnics education in Nigeria, theories without practical is nothing but manipulations, Science and Technology flows together so President Buhari should ensure BSc and HND goes together and are treated the same.

NCE council should look into all past and present resolutions and forward same to the federal executive council for necessary action.

All minister of the federal republic of Nigeria should look into the issue of HND/BSc dichotomy in each of their ministries along with parastaters under them.
That NBTE should arise and resume her constitutional role over the products of her institution so accredited just like her counterpart body NUC.
We are optimistic on the struggle for the abolishment of HND/BSC dichotomy,  as we urge that the President and Commander in Chief of the armed forces, the Federal Executive Council, National Assembly and the National Council on Establishment to be our heroes, to be the champions of millions of Nigerian Youths who have been disenfranchised by this separatist policy and icons that will be remembered for changing Nigerian lives for good.

The struggle continues for the liberation of the polytechnic system from discrimination. #SAYNOTOHND/BSCDICHOTOMY #POLYTECHNICMUSTAWARDB.Tech.

Comrade Olugbode H Damola
National Vice President
National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS)

Comrade Olawole S Kolawole
Rep. Coalition of Concerned HND Holders

NAPS DEMAND INCLUSION OF FEDERAL POLYTECHNICS IN THE ENERGIZING EDUCATION PROGRAMME INITIATIVE OF THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT

The Federal Ministry of Power, Works and Housing through the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) has propose an Energizing Education Programme (EEP) initiative to rejuvenate the education system through electrifying a total of 37 federal universities and & 7 university teaching hospitals, with Independent Power Plants (IPPS), which is aimed at boosting effective learning, innovation and advancement through uninterrupted power supply.

The programme as good as it seems, is cooked with discrimination against the Polytechnic education, with no excuse good enough to justify the exclusion of Federal Polytechnics from the Energizing Education Programme other than discrimination at its peak. A programme to rejuvenate the education system sectionalized only to the university community without consideration for the Polytechnics and Colleges of Education is a proposed plan to kill other educational system in the country.

Extending electrification to rural and underserved areas where the institutions are located ultimately as part of the benefit of the programme is the more reason why Polytechnics and other educational system must partake in the initiative. Polytechnic are more located in remote areas, whatever criteria’s that chooses Federal Universities should accommodate Federal Polytechnics to give a level developmental grounds for all the system in the educational sector.

It is disheartening that the Federal Ministry of Education is a party to the discrimination against the Polytechnic education, the supervising Ministry of educational activities in Nigeria which is expected to know better and guild her counterpart ministry on how to go about the Programme failed, only to give consent to the segregation of other sectors to facilitate an interactive session with the vice chancellors and directors of physical planning of the affected universities.

National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS) frown at the discrimination, calls for the inclusion of Federal Polytechnics in the EEP Initiative, Polytechnics should be given the benefit to enjoy an uninterrupted and dedicated power supply through the Off-grid Independent Power Project electricity, and also optimized security for the safety and wellbeing of students and staff through the installation of streetlights on campus.

Polytechnics as institution with practical based orientations are more in need of constant power supply to meet up world class trainings, research and teachings can be boost to professionalism, with significant impact on the quality of graduates produced, thereafter contributing remarkably to the production and invention of technology in Nigeria.

NAPS leadership would not hesitate to mobilize Polytechnic Students to the streets to press home the inclusion of Federal Polytechnics in the EEP Initiate, what is good for the geese is equally good for the gander. Polytechnics should not be subdue, segregated or discriminated against for any reason whatsoever. The sincerity of the Federal government to abolish the HND/ BSC dichotomy is in doubt and can only be redeemed by the immediate capturing of polytechnics in the proposed EEPI programme.

Signed

Comrade Olugbode Damola H
NAPS National Vice President (National Affairs) 08068360731

POLYTECHNIC STUDENTS APPRECIATE THE REVERSAL OF HIKE IN KWARAPOLY SCHOOL FEES

The action and inaction of man cannot be erase on planet earth but will echo till eternity.

We give glory to Almighty God who in his infinite mercy crown our efforts and struggles with victory, if not God build the house labourers only labour in vain.

One will recall the struggles, protest and cries of Kwara State Polytechnic Students over the unjust Increment of the school fees across board to the tune of Eighty-nine thousand Naira (N89,000), and the denial of school fee increments by the school management, claiming to be implementing an alien policy that says " the amount you pay in your first year is what you pay in your second year".

This conflicting positions of both parties has put the public in the dark until the prompt intervention of the Kwara State House of Assembly where it was established that there was actually an increment after proper investigation.

A Joint committee of the Executive and the legislative was thereafter setup to find a lasting solution to cries of the students which resolves the school fees be reduced far below what the students pay in 2016/2017 academic session and the school management must follow due process before any increment in future. Modalities should also be put in place to refund excesses to students who had already paid the new tuition fee.

We appreciate the Kwara State House of Assembly under the leadership of Dr Ali Ahmad for their swift intervention, fair hearings from both parties and sincere disposition on the matter. It is a sign that the Kwara State House of Assembly is a composition of the masses conscious members, with orientation that government is of the people, by the people and for the people. Today will not be forgotten so easily in the mind of Kwara State Polytechnic Students and the Nigeria Students at large.

We appreciate the immeasurable effort of the Senate President of Nigeria (Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki),Kwara State Governor (His excellency Dr. Abdulfatai Ahmed) and all other institutions involved in the resolution of the Tuition fee increment Saga.

Our unreserved apologies to the management of Kwara State Polytechnic for our actions and inactions perceived to be unruly in the cause of agitating the struggle, we are students and that reason why they are our managers. We want to reaffirm our readiness to work with the school as partners in progress and sustain cordial relationship for the betterment of the institution.

All students of Kwara State Polytechnic are advice to make full payment of their school fees before the end of January, maintain peaceful mutual co-existence to sustain an uninterrupted academic activities.

Freedom Cometh by Struggle!

I salute the courage of all dogged students who stood firm on the agitation amidst intimidation, victimization and other threats with the believe that there comes light at the end of every tunnel and appreciate all activist who lend their voice to the struggle in solidarity, also we acknowledge the efforts of media houses,Security Operatives,Student Activist,Public/Social Affairs analysts,and the general public in contribution to the struggle.

Viva Aluta

National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS) : New Year New Dimension

We wish all Nigerian students of the Polytechnic extraction, the general student populace and Nigerians as a whole a Happy New Year. May the new year bring new blessings, opportunities and breakthrough to your door steps and turn all your dreams into reality.

Every moment of life is new, every second's minute's and hour's of everyday, week's and month's in every Year is new and worth celebrating for the gift of life. The completion of a calendar is a start over of a new count, which can also be a mere continuation of life to many individuals.

New year can only be considered remarkable, if unbox with achievable resolutions, new turn of event, activities and achievement worth reckoning with. The previous year 2017 was more of political activities in NAPS, clashing with the interest of the association, Nigeria Polytechnic Students and the oppressed our voice speaks for.

The new year will be of a new dimension in the operations of NAPS with total concentration on the complete abolishment of the HND / BSC dichotomy with leverage on the political nature of the year. The affairs of the association will run strictly in accordance with the constitution, genuine struggles to liberate the oppressed from the shackles of oppressors. Motivational and inspirational programs package will be unveil in series for the benefit of the students.

Our leadership is committed than ever to force out our fair share in the activities of National Association of Nigeria Students ( NANS) especially in the forth coming NANS Convention, it is time to have a NANS President from the Polytechnics, it will not be business as usual. We will mobilize support for our own and standby the mandate.

NAPS will be taking a new dimension this year with zero tolerance for sabotage, impersonations and sales of student struggles. All corrupt element hiding under the association name are advised to repent or stay clear the activities of NAPS for the our Leadership under the watch of Comrade Mohammed Eneji as National President will not condole nonsense.

Once again we wish you all Happy New Year.

Come Olugbode Damola Hammed
NAPS Vice President (National Affairs)
08068360731

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF POLYTECHNICS STUDENTS (NAPS) GETS NEW LEADERSHIP

BEING THE COMMUNIQUE OF NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF POLYTECHNIC STUDENTS NAPS NATIONAL CONGRESS HELD AT KOGI STATE POLYTECHNIC LOKOJA BETWEEN 7TH - 8TH DECEMBER, 2017

PREAMBLE

National Association of Polytechnic Students NAPS being an umbrella body for polytechnic, Monotechnics, Colleges of Technology and other allied Institutions awarding National and Higher National Diploma across the six geo-political zones of the federation.

The incumbent National Executive under the leadership of Comr Adeyeye Olugbenga Pilot of Federal Polytechnic Bida Niger State and the Senate Leadership led by Comr Jeremiah Friday of Petroleum Training Institute Efunrun Delta State whose consuming passion to transit united and indivisible NAPS informed their wide consultation within Stakeholders, Security Agency including NAPS Constitution to ensure unity of our dear Association.

Sequel to kaduna Polytechnic NAPS National Convention which followed with miss feelings and controversies couple with proposed parallel convention Schedule at Federal Polytechnic Bauchi.

The result of the consultations recommend emergency summon of National Congress as supprem organ of NAPS to profer solution to the impending leadership crisis and tempting backalnization of our dear Association along the interest line.

The National congress which has student union presidents, former and incumbent leaders of NAPS and student delegates from. 124 affiliate Institutions/unions in attendance under the observation of security operatives from department of state service, Nigeria Police Force and State Intelligence Bureau.

The Accreditation of 124 delegates conducted and monitored by office of the Assistant Secretary General of NAPS Comr. Olalere Benedict with official opening  declaration by outgoing National President of NAPS Comr Adeyeye Olugbega Pilot in company of his Vice President National Affairs Comr Seriki Ibrahim and Senate President Comr Jeremiah Friday followed with unanimous election of Amb S A Lukman #AIG former Senate President of NAPS through voice voting pattern as congress Chairman which came unopposed.

The successful election of congress chairman who took over the proceeding of the congress came with the following resolution after exhaustive and robust deliberation by delegates and members on ground for the congress.

1. Kaduna Polytechnic controversial Convention stand null and void holding to the fact that the process lack merit and it remain un- inclusive.

2. That the 2017 National Convention Planning Committee headed by Comr Tijani Mustapha Stand dissolved, as such no individual or group of persons are empowered by the provision of NAPS constitution henceforth to call or convey a National convention for the purpose of election of new Executives for NAPS.

3. The congress dissolved the incumbent executive led by Olugbega Adeyeye Pilot, senate led by Jeremiah Friday and all other ad-hoc  committee (S).

4. The congress proceeded with election of new Executives to pilot the affairs of NAPS for the next one academic session 2017/2018 to avoid vacuum as well adopt voice voting pattern to ascertain the consent of the congress on the consensus list presented by each geopolitical zones.

5. The following list contains the names and institutions of elected officials base on consensus with congress consent via voice vote.

1. Muhammed Eneji- President Kogi State Polytechnic lokoja

2. Olugbola Damola- Vice President National Affairs Federal Polytechnic Nasarawa

3. Musa Yabagi Babaanini- Secretary General Kogi State Polytechnic lokoja

4. Okusu William - Vice President External Delta state Polytechnic Oghara Otefe

5. Ogbelola Tobilola Muizz - Vice President Special Duties Ogun State ICT Polytechnic Itori

6. Adekanbi Sunday - Senate President kaduna Polytechnic

7. Nkporun Chambaleen- Deputy Senate President Federal Polytechnic Nekede Imo State

8. Okoroji Uzodimma Victor- Assistant Secretary General Federal Polytechnic Oko Anambra State

9. Olaniyan Ifedayo- Treasurer Federal Polytechnic Offa Kwara State

10. Ijaduoye Olasunkanmi- P.R.O Ogun State ICT Polytechnic Saapade

11. Queen Onyeagba- Financial Secretary Institute Of Management Technology Enugu

12. Isah Ibrahim Nation Provost Kwara State Polytechnic Ilorin

13. Alhassan Bashirat- Vice President North Central Federal Polytechnic Bida Niger State

14. Lukman Lawal Orbama- Vice President North West. Abdul Gusau Polytechnic Talata Marfa Zamfara State

15. Frank Nzenwa- Vice President South East Federal Polytechnic Nekede Imo State

16. Minima Andy Okpukpo-Vice President  South South Ken Sarowiwa Polytechnic Bori Rivers State

17. Aliyu Samad - Vice President South West. Federal Cooperative College Eleyele Ibadan Oyo State

18. Joseph Ezekiel Temitope - Director  of Sport Rufus Giwa Polytechnic Owo Ondo State

19. Sulyman Ayodeji Mumen - Director of Contact & Mobilization Kwara State Polytechnic Ilorin

20. Isimikhai Abusal - Director of Travel & Exchange  Auchi Polytechnic Auchi Edo State

21. Ugwo Anthony - Ex Official 1 Federal Polytechnic Ede Osun State

While Director of Campus Affairs, Vice President North East, Director of Conflict Resolution, and Ex Officio II shall be elect and appointed during the next senate meeting and  oath of office was administered for all newly elected officials follow by official Handing over and transfer of handing over note between immediate past National President Comr Adeyeye Olugbega Pilot of Federal Polytechnic Bida and the newly sworn In National president Comr Mohammed Eneji of kogi state polytechnic lokoja

Congress adjourned till further notice.

Signed

Amb S A Lukman#AIG
Congress Chairman

CC :
DSS
NPF
NBTE
COHEADS
PROVOST
MEDIA
PUBLIC NOTICE.

NAPS CONVENTION KADUNA 2017 POSTPONED

PRESS TEXT. 10/09/2017

Protocol.

It's imperative the leadership of NAPS 2017 Convention Planing Committee make this public statement for posterity sake, the schedule National Convention of National Association of Polytechnic Students NAPS for kaduna Polytechnic kaduna which commenced officially on Thursday 7th September 2017 with arrival of delegates from various institutions, the convention planing committee proceeded with submittion of Aspirant Intent Forms to Department Of State Security Service Kaduna Command for final Verification.

While waiting for the result of the verification, the committee conveyed stakeholders meeting to see to possible Alliance in order to ensure smooth and hitch free electioneering process. This meetings and Alliances at various levels lasted all through Saturday 9th September 2017 and today being Sunday 10th September 2017 the CPC observed the unfruitfulness of all cacus and stakeholders meetings at all levels as such resolve the election should go on contest to ensure fairness to all parties involved.

This sole progressive move and declaration by the committee resulted to series of attack and stabbed on CPC Member, while the chairman was held hostage for hours before the arrival of Police special Squad who rescued the CPC Chairman. upon the rescue of the chairman by Nigeria police officers around 5:00pm, with the CPC member and delegates stabbed already at the hospital couple with the fact that the approved venue being Kadpoly Convocation square does not have light.

 In order to avoid more casualities, The CPC Chairman observed the need to shift the electioneering process again. Then he reported to State Security Service with all Presidential Aspirants except Mohammed Eneji and the security advice the postponement for the fact that all security earlier mounted at the venue has been withdrawn. Then the announcement was made. The consequent of this was the official postponement of convention till further notice, although the report had it that some unscrupulous, misinformed/despirate element and enemy of the NAPS unity has declared them self winner of the election that never held which they never contested, but for the avoidance of doubt the CPC is calling on all the self Aclaimed winners to furnish the public the number of votes he or she polled.

It's pertinent to state clearly that the accreditation has not even been done as at the time the postponement was announced while all delegate tags were still with the Assistant Secretary General of NAPS, the purported convergence Aclaimed for self declaration had no incumbent President of NAPS Comr Adeyeye Olugbenga Pilot nor Comr Jeremiah Friday the senate President in attendance rather the some irrational former leaders of NAPS. While we await the result of verification exercise from DSS the new date and venue of the 2017 National Convention Shall be announce soonest. We implore all students to remain calm just as we wish all delegates safe Trip back to their respective institutions.
Signed

MUSTAPHA TIJJANI
Former NAPS President
CPC Chairman
CC
* MINISTER OF EDUCATION
*NBTE
*DSS HQTs
*INSPECTOR GENERAL OF POLICE
*COHEADs

THE CONVERSION OF MAPOLY TO MAUTECH: A NEED TO REVISIT YABANI REPORT

Recommendations on the upliftment of polytechnic to degree awarding institution featured in so many reports submitted to federal government of Nigeria by several committees setup in the time past where its majorly agreed that products of polytechnics have out grown the "middle level" adjective use in judging the mental capacities of their graduates. However the stage of implementation is where all the report finds difficult to scale through due to high politics of superiority among universities and polytechnics regulatory bodies couple with the insincerity of purpose displayed by government officials assigned to the job.

The 1999 report submitted by the federal government committee on the review of polytechnic education headed by Adamu Yabani popularly referred to as yabani report best proffer solutions to the problem of polytechnic education in Nigeria with a clearly mapped out chart that addresses the superiority of degree and diploma regulatory bodies.  As contained in the report polytechnics should award National Diploma ND at first stage, Bachelor of Technology B.Tech at second stage and higher degrees as offers in the universities. Learning can be terminated at ND level or proceeds to B.Tech level on a stretch, as desired by students. ND graduates are to be referred to as middle level man power.

The recent conversion of Mashood Abiola Polytechnic (MAPOLY) to Mashood Abiola University of Technology (MAUTECH) calls for the need to revisit Yabani report to safe guard the educational future of students currently in the system, students holding the institution's ND certificate and as well serve as a model to the upgrade of other polytechnics in the country. The transformation of the institutions is a litmus test that will go a long way in describing the future of polytechnic education in Nigeria, the decision to keep or wipe out the awards of National Diploma in the institutions is a win or a loss to Nigeria polytechnic education.

Yabani report recommends that National Diploma should be the prerequisite into B.Tech programs in polytechnic, ND programs will be two years while B.Tech is a three year program culminating into five years academic year for students who desires to posses the B.Tech degree. With the recommendations in the report the Award of HND in polytechnic will be phase out as its no more the practice of advanced nation. Notwithstanding B.Tech and HND will be accepted to be equal for further academic pursuits in the system.

 The failure to adhere with recommendations of Yabani report in the transformation of MAPOLY to MAUTECH will be tantamount to the systematic killing of polytechnic education in Nigeria, the fate of polytechnic education hangs in the balance as so many states will follow suit if all went well with the MAPOLY conversion. The good intention of the Ogun State government will be best appreciated if carefully and diligently implemented, what is expected is an upgrade of the institution not a total conversion into a conventional university.

MAUTECH is a hope brought to realization only if the recommendations outlined for the creation of universities of technology are followed to the later beyond what we have now in the country, universities of technology are expected to be an institution for the  advancement of polytechnic education perhaps they run similar mandate but in the reality of it they still discriminate against the polytechnics though its just a name and recognition difference they offer same quality of education to students.

Nigeria is a step closer to polytechnic education reform if we get it right from the upgrade of MAPOLY to an institution where  the base as polytechnic is firmly rooted by the continuous award of National Diploma and the abolishment of dichotomy by awarding B.Tech in place of HND. With this, the dichotomy of HND and BSC will be a forgone issue yet we will still have the middle level man power graduates for relative assignment as described in the polytechnic establishment act.

Comrade Olugbode Damola Hammed
NAPS National PRO

YABATECH MANAGEMENT HEED TO STUDENTS YEARNING, REDUCES SCHOOL FEES

Victory to the students agitation once again as the management of Yaba College of Technology bows to pressure by reducing the increased school fees, the school fees of the college was increased across board for the new session which prompted strong resistance from the students community, being that the increase is coming at a time of economy instability when some state governments are finding it difficult to pay salaries.

Coalition of student leaders meets with the management of the college to negotiate down the school fees, after much deliberation, making case for why the fee must be jacked down and listening to defence of why the fee must stand, it’s considered to be fair on both angle the deduction of three thousand five hundred naira from the satellites school fees (Full Time) while other fees were resolved to maintain status quo as the essentiality of the increase can’t be manipulated.

Sounded at the meeting was the need to return the proscribed student union as a matter of urgency to ensure proper representation of student interest and inclusion of student views when taking decision bothering on student welfares, the management though agreed to constitute and inaugurate immediately a caretaker committee to represent the students who in turn shall conduct an election to usher in a democratically elected student union leadership.

The management also assured that no student will be victimized nor be intimidated on the basses of staging or participating in protest for the reduction of the school fees, further advises students to desist being used to ferment trouble on campus, students should adopts consultation and consolidation at all point in time. The school remains the pride of the students and all damage to its reputation is a stain on the certificate we intend to carry.

 We implore all students to return back to class for the continuity of academic activities as we salute their doggedness and steadfastness throughout the struggle, appreciations to the security agencies who fast-track the negotiation with the management and our gratitude to the management for the kind consideration of our requests. The struggle continues as long as we live.

Signed
Comr Salahudeen A Lukman
Regional President (WAPSU)

Comr Adeyeye Olugbenga
National President (NAPS)

Comr Akinyanmi Abraham
Vice Chairman (NANS / JCC Lagos)

Comr Ashaye Adesanya
President School of Engineering (YABATECH)/Chairman Council of Faculty Presidents

Dehinbo Nathaniel
president (CU YABATECH)

Adeniyan Sulaiman
President (MSSN YABATECH)

NAPS PRE-CONVENTION (ADAMAWA 2017)

Being The Communique Issued By National Association of Polytechnic Students NAPS After The 37th Senate Meeting/Pre-Convention At Adamawa State Polytechnic Yola on 13th May, 2017.

Preamble:

National Association of Polytechnic Students  is the umbrella body for all Polytechnics, Mono-technics, Colleges of Technology, Colleges of Education and all other Allied Institutions awarding National and higher national diploma across the six geo-political zones of the federation and diaspora.  This association which is the second largest students movement in the  African continent, with the conglomeration of all SUG presidents as senators, forming the Senate Assembly with over 21.1 million armless battalion Nigerian students membership strength, (NAPS) has been in the vanguard of campaign for equity, justice and good governance, free and qualitative education for over two decades. The contribution of our noble Association in bringing about our nascent democracy cannot be over emphasized. NAPS is an affiliate of the International Students’ Union (ISU), All African Students’ Union (AASU), West African Students Union (WASU), West Africa Polytechnic Students Union (WAPSU), National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) and has a Consultative working relationship with UNESCO, UNICEF and ECOWAS.

The Senate meeting was well attended by students’ union presidents of various institutions under NAPS and stakeholders.
The sitting was presided over by the National President of the senate, Comr. Jeremiah Friday Ohamah, with the Attendance of Comr. Seriki Ibrahim, the National Vice President National Affairs and Comr. Olugbode Damola, the National Public Relation Officer, representing the Executive Council. After extensive deliberation, the senate resolved thus:

STATE OF THE NATION

NAPS Senate pledged support to The Federal Government under the Acting President Prof. Yemi Osibanjo, and prayed for President Muhammadu Buhari’s Full recovery and quick return from Medical Vacation.

The senate commended the recent effort of Federal House of Representative on the Bill seeking complete abolishment of HND/BSC Dichotomy, also called for speedy passage of the bill.

The Senate applauded Col. Hammid Ali led Nigeria Custom Service (NCS) and Kano State Government for implementation of Dichotomy removal as resolved by the National Council On Establishment, while calling on federal government and States Government to enforce Immediate compliance and implementation  by all MDAs.

The Senate Commended the Commitment of the 8th National Assembly under the Chairmanship of Sen. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, The Senate President Federal Republic of Nigeria, for the public declaration of National Assembly Budget for the first time in 8 years, his commitment to Youth, Education and National Development, the Senate therefore Passed Vote of Confidence on his leadership. NAPS admonished the Senate President to use his good office to engineer speedy consideration and passage of the Same Bill Seeking Complete Abolishment of the Dichotomy between the two Certificates.
 
STATE OF THE CAMPUS

NAPS Senate congratulates all Federal Polytechnics on the appointment of Governing Council. It also charged the council chairmen and members for collaborative spirit with management to fast-tract the realization of polytechnic goals.

NAPS congratulates the Management, Staff and Students of Federal Polytechnic Nasarawa for the successful hosting of the 19th Edition of Nigeria Polytechnic Games (NIPOGA) Taged: NASARAWA 2017, in the same vain felicitate with the Winner of the Game ‘Lagos State Polytechnic, Ikorodu, Lagos State’.

NAPS Senate expressed concern on the continuous use of acting Rector in Federal Polytechnic Damaturu, Yobe state for four years running (since 2013 to date) and demand that Hon Minister of Education Act, with immediate effect so as to improve the welfare and living standard of the students whose plight is nothing to write home about considering the restricted powers of ‘Acting Rector’.

The Senate Called for internal mechanism to resolve the impulse between the Students’ Union Government and the Management of Ken Saro-wiwa Polytechnic, Bori, Rivers State, with the suspension of the Incumbent SUG president and resultant Legal Battle, the Senate Sets 5 Man Committee chaired by Amb. S A Lukman, the Immediate Past Senate President of NAPS to see to the matter.

NAPS Senate called on the Management of Kwara State polytechnic, Ilorin to act fast on the reconsideration of  the suspended immediate past SUG welfare Director who is due for NYSC mobilization, as such act will re affirm the confidence of the Association on the integrity of Rector as a man who possesses the capacity and will to fulfil promises made.

The Senate Called on Management and ASUP of Kaduna Polytechnic, Kaduna and Lagos State Polytechnic, Ikorodu to consider their positions on the ongoing Strike actions which has kept students off academic activities for over 4 weeks, it set 5 Man Intervention Committee each to mediate on behalf of NAPS.

The Senate also commended the newly appointed acting rector of Auchi Polytechnic for resolving the crisis he inherited and tasked him to take the Polytechnic to the next level.

STATE OF NAPS

The executive council of NAPS represented by Comr. Seriki Ibrahim Olawale, NAPS Vice President National Affairs from Federal polytechnic Offa, Kwara state gave the secretariat report to the senate.

Yaba College of Technology, Lagos State, Jigawa State Polytechnic, Dutse, Jigawa State and Auchi Polytechnic, Auchi, Edo State was suggested as NAPS 2017 National convention Venue, after hot debate, NAPS senate entrusted Convention Planning Committee with term of reference to liaise with all stakeholders, authorities and other necessary quarters to secure a befitting state among the above listed for the 2017 National Convention.

The Senate, haven considered the forth coming Ramadan Fasting within May and June, with democratic practice of physical and voice voting process, adopted 7th-9th of July, 2017 for National Convention.

LIST OF CONVENTION PLANING COMMITTEE as Adopted by the NAPS Senate.

COMR. TIJANNI MUSTAPHA – CHAIRMAN
COMR. OGBONAYA SUNDAY – SECRETARY
COMR. OLALERE BENEDICT – MEMBER
COMR. SIMON SEYI SAWYER – MEMBER
AMB. SALAHUDEEN A LUKMAN – MEMBER
COMR. FAWALE OLUWOLE JACOB - MEMBER
COMR. ARMSTRONG OVIE AFABOR – MEMBER
COMR. LIBERTY ISSAC NWAGU – MEMBER
COMR. MUHAMMED SAKIS – MEMBER
COMR. GABRIEL ABELA – MEMBER
COMR. UKAZA HAMZA RHAMAN – MEMBER
COMR. IBRAHIM SULEIMAN – MEMBER
COMR. ABDULRAHMAN AGBOOLA – MEMBER
COMR. SERAYETUNDE OGUNNOWO
COMR. AKARA OSARO CALEB

THE TERMS OF REFERENCE ARE AS FOLLOWS:

To work on the senate suggested venue and approved date for the national convention.
To ensure free, fair and credible election to usher in new leadership.
To ensure proper screening of all aspirants, particularly the studentship authenticity.

AOB
NAPS Senate Assembly applauded the senate president of NAPS, Comr. Jeremiah Friday Ohomah for good representation, sense of coordination and pro activeness
The senate saluted in appreciation, the Adamawa State Government and commended His excellency Sen. Muhammadu Umaru Jibrilla Bindow,  (The Sardauna Mubi) for his impressive performance in office thus far, all security Agencies with a stress on Department State Service (DSS) Yola Command and The Management of Adamawa State Polytechnic, Yola, also National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), Council of Heads of Polytechnic and Colleges of Technology (COHEADS) in anticipation for the usual support for smooth transition.

ADJOURNMENT

The senate adjourned till 7th to 9th July, 2017 at a later to be communicated venue by CPC for the National Convention.

Signed.

Amb. S A Lukman #AIG
Communiqué Drafting Committee Chairman

Comr. Akara Osaro Caleb
Communique Drafting Committee Secretary

Comr. Jeremiah Friday Ohamah
NAPS Senate President

Cc: NPF, DSS, CIA, NSCDC, FME, NBTE, COHEADS, RECTORS, PROVOSTS, SUG PRESIDENTS.

NIGERIA POLYTECHNIC GAMES – POSITIVE DIRECTION FOR ENTREPRENEURSHIP EDUCATION IN NIGERIA POLYTECHNICS (By; AbdulRahman Agboola)

The design of polytechnic education in Nigeria was basically intended to provide middle level manpower to support economic growth, in reality, the target has been met over the years as the polytechnics in their numbers still provides leeway for exhibition of practical knowledge in industries and other sectors of the economy in line with the design. To be regarded as a professional in a field, one must possess deep knowledge, high degree of training and skill in the practice of the discipline, comparatively; some disciplines are more professional than others.

If professionalism is viewed from the angle of occupation and paid jobs, it could be assumed that all formally educated citizens should be dutifully engaged, but in actual fact, not all disciplines could be accommodated in high numbers in the economy, a situation that challenges unemployed graduates or other certificate holders towards diversification of knowledge to optimally perform required functions outside classroom knowledge acquired.

The degree or diploma certificates have become stepping stones to get employments but job details oftentimes varies with the certificates, thereby mandating specialized trainings and counseling by an employer in some cases, going by limited spaces available in specific professions, which is mostly attributive to high unemployment rate in Nigeria. There are divergent opinions on the provision of high level manpower by polytechnics weighing the curriculum of Higher National Diploma with University degree in related disciplines, where many placed HND Certificates on the same pedestal with Degree Certificates, other hold different views.

The inclusion of entrepreneurship training as a core teaching in polytechnics for the purpose of tilting the mentality of polytechnic products towards enterprise and job independence, in the bid to control the search for white collar jobs has not yielded deserving results as the entrepreneurship education is being mismanaged with poor course modules and absence of seriousness in the training. Major emphasis are placed on tailoring, soap making, block making and other menial enterprise being taught at peripheral, thereby creating ambivalence in the teachings of entrepreneurship education in polytechnics.

The 19th Edition of Nigeria Polytechnic Games from 27th to 6th May 2017 in Federal Polytechnic Nasarawa is an eye opener to urgent demand for consideration of sports as entrepreneur in polytechnics. Over forty polytechnics participated in sporting events like Tennis, Football, Volleyball, Basketball, Handball, Judo, Taekwondo, Chess, Scrabble and athletics with more than two thousand participants.

The events are admixtures of professionalism and amateurish displays among contingents, though allegations of mercenaries wasn’t prominent but performance of different institutions in events rates some institutions as parading quality and well trained players than others. Sporting events are majorly categorized under extracurricular activities but considering the enterprise endeavours inherent in sports and the possibility of creating accomplished players capable of creating niche for themselves in sports as students; sports should be considered under entrepreneurship education in polytechnics.

The opening ceremony of the NIPOGA was graced by a retired footballer and football coach of international repute – Samson Siasia among other notable sports enthusiasts that graced the occasion as facilitated by a NIPOGA promoter Hajia Aishat Audu – Emeje of A3 Foundation. The President of NIPOGA – Professor Shettima AbdulKadir Saidu who is the Rector of Federal Polytechnic Nasarawa provided standard equipment for the events and the Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee – Dr Yahaya Baba Usman ensured the smooth coordination of the events with the National Organizing Committee in a manner that showed qualitative events capable of encouraging participants to improve in choosing games.

In Polytechnics, sport has maintained the status of extracurricular at the expense of entrepreneur capable of producing professionals’ sportsmen and sportswomen in polytechnics, many among previous participants that showed distinct qualities as players at NIPIOGA didn’t gain national prominence through their participation in NIPOGA and the trend must be appraised to encourage more productive and pragmatic participations of students in sports at different levels.

Scouters searching for talents in different games were sighted at different events in the 19th Edition of NIPOGA at Federal Polytechnic Nasarawa, especially John Fashanu and host of others that monitored the football events with rapt attention, other events witnessed representatives of National bodies or federations governing sporting activities in Nigeria. It is incumbent on Rectors and Sport Coaches in polytechnics to design means of encouraging polytechnic students to develop interest and actively participate in sports as players to create credible enterprise under the concept of entrepreneurship education.

Considering the lukewarm attitudes of government and sports developers in Nigeria to sports developments, the transformation of sports from extracurricular to entrepreneur in polytechnics must be considered with apprehension but with conscientious planning and implementations, hope is at sight for the achievement of this lofty idea. The energy, enthusiasm and spirit of sportsmanship showcased by participants clearly create a roadmap for proper study of sports as worthy enterprise to complement other professional trainings being acquired by students that yearns for job security after graduation.

In Nasarawa 2017, the youthful ages of participants with high numbers of teens have the tendencies of producing worthy talents capable of adding to the glory of Nigeria in sporting activities locally, nationally and internationally. In previous eras, secondary school sports produced raw talents that eventually became successful in sports globally and a critical study of this reference is capable of creating opportunities for polytechnic students in this order, which implies that the technical committees, rectors and other interested stakeholders must take proper review of the events with the target to improve on future preparations in line with this new demands.

Dossiers of participants that wins medals or with brilliant displays must be compiled for record purpose and onward transmissions to independent governing bodies which can lead to invitations of players for trials at other events, to expose them to real professionalism and proper encouragements. To complement this onerous task, proper media engagements must be fashioned to sharpen perception on NIPOGA by the general public and probably gain required funding to cushion the effects of poor funding of NIPOGA by government.

The 19th Edition of Nigeria Polytechnic Games ought to have taken place over nine months ago due to deficiency of funding; it took exceptional task of the host institution rector to outsource for means of providing requirements for hosting of the events and the waiting has really worth it with the beautiful hosting of the events that has now gained more national recognition and prominence in the public fore due to excellent host and media attention. NIPOGA must be advanced in such manner capable of attesting to the hallmark of polytechnic products as people with adequate technical knowledge, which has been serving developmental purpose and growth of Nigeria since the pre-independence era.

The platform for detecting sport talents among polytechnic students should be well established through the NIPOGA with the mandate to create enabling opportunities for them to be properly trained and equipped with required skills to compete with peers and contemporaries elsewhere as obtained in well-coordinated climes. The handling of Polytechnic Games should be redesigned to envisage reliable treat of emerging challenges; the games should shift from fiesta to opportunities drive for participants to hit stardom through sports as an enterprise.

Comrade AbdulRahman Agboola
Vice Chairman, Senior Staff Association of Nigeria Polytechnics – SSANIP
Federal Polytechnic Nasarawa Chapter.

NAPS REJECTS INCREASE IN JAMB REGULARIZATION FEE: CALLS FOR THE REMOVAL OF JAMB REGISTRAR

Education in Nigeria is tilting toward becoming a commercial avenue with standards departing the sector at speed of light, to get educated in Nigeria today with the obnoxious policies of educational institutions is synonymous to getting a debt sentence. Extortionate policies are made over night at will of institutional heads, and students bear the pain of meeting up exploitative demands innocently. Virtually all nooks and crannies of the educational sector need to be touched light by the anti-corruption war of the federal government starting from the Joint Admission Matriculation Board (JAMB).  

JAMB dwell in retrogression since the appointment of a new registrar, contrary to the positive new turn of event Nigerians expect of the admission board. Professor Ishaq Oloyede the new registrar has shown in his handling of JAMB, that he has nothing to offer other than his interest in commercializing the board. In no time of his appointment as JAMB registrar, JAMB regularization fee has been increased by over hundred percent from four thousand Naira to ten thousand Naira, the fraudulent regularization process aim at generating JAMB registration number for students who got admitted without passing through JAMB has always been met with strong rescission from students as we believe it is a policy solely designed to squeeze out money from students purse.

The justification of mere profile updates being charge at a fee higher than the examination proper is nothing cut short of corruption. JAMB regularization fee had since become a prerequisite for NYSC mobilization, making it compulsory for all graduating students as such seventy percent of graduating students fall into the extortion trap. JAMB is yet to justify why students are to pay for regularization and not the schools that boycotts the admission board to dish out admission at will to proffered candidate at expense of the admission regulatory board provided their requirement are fulfilled.

Aiding and abetting of institutions charging at rates higher than JAMB stipulation and new policy stating ten thousand Naira be charge on alteration of JAMB forms (change of course, institution, or choice of institution) further reveals the commercialization motive of professor Oloyede. Our leadership has lost confidence in the personality of the registrar with his extortive policies, the delay in the conduct of JAMB examination couple with the fact that he is yet to clear his name from corruption allegations leveledagainst him by ASUU UNILORIN chapter.

Education should not and will not be a debt sentence. We demand education that will be accessible by all. We demand the anti corruption war of the federal government be extended to the Joint Admission Matriculation Board and the replacement of the registrar within seven days, as all machineries are in place to mobilize our teaming students to the street to seek justice and put an end to the unjust exploitation of Nigeria students if our demands are not met.

Signed

COMR OLUGBODE DAMOLA

NAPS National PRO

(08068360731)

ASUP WARNING STRIKE: THE NEED FOR A REFORMED POLYTECHNIC EDUCATION IN NIGERIA

Polytechnic education remains the pivot of technological advancement in Nigeria.

All machineries in place to suspend academic activities on all polytechnic campuses across the country from 30^th  January, 2017 by ASUP in a protest to the nonpayment of staff salaries in most state institutions, non implementation of the needs assessment report 2014, non removal of entry dichotomy between HND and degrees, non review of polytechnic act, victimization of union officials, and non release of check off dues among other reasons, confirms  the unending hypocritical disposition of the federal government towards polytechnic education in Nigeria.

Lack of passion towards the advancement of polytechnic education best describes the deaf ears turned to the genuine agitation of the staff union by federal government despite the severity of the issues raised. Expiration of the one month ultimatum issued by the union to draw the government attention to issues at hand not yielding a serious commitment further reveals the attempt of the federal government to deliberately expose Nigerian students to the danger of idleness.  

Record shows that the attention polytechnic education enjoys is far beneath that of the university counterpart which is solely responsible for the infrastructural decay, low academic standard, obsolete facilities, etc, witness in polytechnic sector. Federal government should learn to take polytechnic education serious, and stop playing kite with the future of polytechnic students. Attention should be spread evenly across all tertiary institutions, technological education should be given adequate investment to grow, and our polytechnics should be reformed.

When elephants fight, the grass bears the consequence, we the students stand at the receiving end of the strike. Nigeria students will no longer give chances for our carrier and future to be put on hold for any reason whatsoever, we are yet to recover from the 2012/ 2013 strike which paralysis a whole academic calendar. We request the federal government meet up with the demands of our lecturers and make them see reasons to return back to class before 72hrs which lapses on 1^st February 2017 or we commence mobilization to shut down all federal roads passing through our school gate.

However, our lecturers should not be carpenters who see every problem as nails, industrial actions should not be the approach to all issues, a more diplomatic approach should be melted out to resolve issues with the government when need arises. We understand the genuity of the struggle but appeals the lecturers return to class why negotiation continues. Our future is at stake, our carrier is fading, and we don’t want to idle away, please hear the cry of your students.

Signed:

Comr. Olugbode Damola H

NAPS National PRO

(08068360731)