…urge students to embrace self-reliance

By James Ogunnaike, Abeokuta

The National President of Moshood Abiola Polytechnic Alumni Association (MAPALUM), Alhaji Ayinde Soaga, has called on the Ogun State government, to significantly increase funding for polytechnic education, describing the current allocations as inadequate for the demands of practical training.

Soaga made the appeal on Tuesday, during a pre-matriculation press briefing of the institution, held at the Moshood Abiola Polytechnic (MAPOLY), Abeokuta.

“I believe that government should increase its allocation to education, particularly to polytechnic education. For institutions like MAPOLY, much more funding is required. The current funding is inadequate for the kind of teaching and hands-on training that polytechnics demand,” he said.

He stressed that polytechnic education goes beyond theoretical learning, emphasizing its focus on practical competence and demonstration.

“Polytechnic education is not just about reading and theory; it is about demonstration and competence. I am proud that MAPOLY has distinguished itself by producing graduates who have excelled nationwide, especially in hands-on fields such as accounting, mass communication, architecture, engineering, among others” he added.

The alumni president commended the institution’s management for its efforts but urged them to intensify development initiatives, noting that greater government support would enhance performance.

“I also call on the government to increase funding for polytechnic education. These institutions need more resources to provide the level of practical training required. What is currently provided is simply not enough,” he said.

He specifically appealed to the Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, to boost budgetary allocation to MAPOLY and similar institutions in the state.

He urged graduates to shift focus from job-seeking to entrepreneurship and productive engagement, assuring that such a mindset would lead to success.

Sharing personal experiences, Soaga recounted how he initially resisted taking up a government job after graduating in 1985 due to low wages, opting instead for independent media engagements before eventually joining the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Abeokuta.

“My message to graduates today is this: be self-reliant. Do not depend solely on salaried jobs, especially government jobs. Use the skills you have acquired here. Polytechnic training equips you with practical abilities—skills you can use to create opportunities for yourself,” he advised.

On infrastructure, Soaga expressed concern over the deplorable condition of roads within the campus, describing it as disappointing, while pledging that the alumni association would collaborate with stakeholders to improve facilities in the polytechnic.

“As members of the MAPOLY Alumni Association, we will also play our part. We will reach out and seek support from individuals and organizations to help improve these conditions,” he said.

Describing MAPOLY as “a beacon of technical, vocational, and professional excellence,” Soaga highlighted the institution’s legacy in producing notable personalities across various sectors, including architecture, business, media, and entertainment.

“MAPOLY is more than a school; it is a crucible where intellect, discipline, and innovation meet opportunity. Over the decades, it has produced leaders, innovators, and change-makers who continue to impact Nigeria and the world,” he stated.

He congratulated newly admitted students for the 2025/2026 academic session, urging them to uphold the institution’s tradition of excellence in both academics and extracurricular activities.

“As we look forward to the matriculation ceremony themed ‘Building a Solid Foundation: The Synergy of Character and Competence,’ we are confident that MAPOLY will continue to mould leaders who will drive development in Nigeria and beyond,” Soaga added.

He also called on alumni, stakeholders, and partners to support the institution through mentorship, infrastructure development, scholarships, and strategic initiatives aimed at sustaining its legacy.