By Paul Olayemi 

The Delta State Polytechnic, Otefe-Oghara, has hosted its maiden colloquium for lecturers, themed “Keeping Our Pride High: Avoiding the Pitfalls of Prospective for Polytechnic Lecturers.” The event, held at the James Onanefe Ibori Auditorium on February 13, 2025, brought together dignitaries, education stakeholders, and lecturers to discuss critical issues affecting the polytechnic sector.  

Delivering the keynote lecture, Dr. Emmanuel Akpoveta, Dean of Mass Communication at Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku, emphasized the importance of polytechnic education in Nigeria. He highlighted the sector’s challenges, including inadequate funding, societal perceptions, and the need for well-equipped laboratories to enhance technical education.  

However, the highlight of the event was an interactive session with the Rector of Delta State Polytechnic, Otefe-Oghara, Professor Emmanuel Ufuophu-Biri, who used the platform to advocate for an end to the long-standing dichotomy between polytechnic and university education in Nigeria.  

Speaking to journalists after the event, Ufuophu-Biri argued that both polytechnic and university lecturers undergo the same rigorous academic training and should not be treated differently.  

“There is no difference. A polytechnic lecturer and a university lecturer attended the same lectures, studied the same curriculum, and obtained the same qualifications. Does working in a university make one intellectually superior to a polytechnic lecturer? The answer is no,” he stated emphatically.  

The former Dean of Mass Communication at the Delta State University, Abraka, further pointed out that many polytechnic lecturers hold multiple PhDs. He described the existing dichotomy as outdated and unnecessary, calling for a policy review that would place polytechnic lecturers on equal footing with their university counterparts.  

“Polytechnics are the foundation of technical and higher education. In some institutions, polytechnic lecturers rise to the rank of associate professor and award degrees. So, in terms of intellectual aptitude, there is no difference,” he explained.  

He suggested that one way to bridge the gap would be to change the title of ‘Chief Lecturer’ in polytechnics to ‘Associate Professor’, aligning with the university system. “This will help address the bias and ensure that polytechnic lecturers receive the recognition they deserve,” he added.  

Reflecting on the success of the colloquium, Ufuophu-Biri emphasized the importance of intellectual discourse in advancing the education sector. “Good things come out of ideas. When intellectuals gather to share knowledge, it leads to positive reforms. That is why we have decided to make this colloquium a biannual event,” he revealed.  

The event was attended by dignitaries, including the Delta State Commissioner for Higher Education, Professor Nyerovwo Tonukari (represented by Dr. Emoefe Ikpima), Hon. Chief Barr. Ogheneaga Orugbo, Chairman of the Governing Council, concluded.

Dignitaries who all contributed to the conversation included Commissioner, Ministry of Higher Education, Prof Nyerovwo Tonukari represented by Dr. Emoefe Okpimah, Chairman, Governing Council, Delta State Polytechnic, Otefe-Oghara,  Ovie of Oghara Kingdom, Orefe III represented by Chief Frank Emiko, and Executive Assistant to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori on Conflict Resolutions, Chief Okakuro Ewhere Duncan Oghenochuko.

Participants commended the initiative and encouraged lecturers to uphold high moral and ethical standards in their profession. 

The maiden colloquium marked a significant step in the institution’s efforts to enhance polytechnic education in Nigeria. With thought-provoking discussions and renewed advocacy for policy change, stakeholders hope that the long-standing academic dichotomy will soon become a thing of the past.