Polytechnics drive industrial growth, not in competition with Universities – Osun Poly Rector
By Ismail Azeez
The Rector of Osun State Polytechnic, Iree, Comrade Kehinde Alabi, has stated that polytechnic education was established for developmental purposes, particularly to train individuals with the practical skills necessary to drive industrial growth.
Speaking at a press conference to kick-start activities for the 8th Combined Convocation Ceremony of Osun State Polytechnic, Comrade Alabi explained that polytechnics and universities were established to focus on entirely different areas of knowledge and skill development.
According to him, polytechnics were established for developmental purposes, specifically to train individuals with practical skills that can spur industrial growth.
He noted that this is why polytechnics were explicitly designed to provide hands-on technical education and produce the skilled manpower required for industrialization.
He addressed the prevailing misconceptions, stating that there is an unhealthy competition between polytechnic and university graduates, even though they are trained for different roles.
He emphasized that in advanced countries, polytechnic graduates often earn more than university graduates because they possess stronger practical skills and hands-on experience.
He reiterated the ongoing need for polytechnics, emphasizing that there should be no competition between university and polytechnic graduates. Both systems are essential, as they focus on different areas of knowledge and skill development.
Speaking on the program of activities for the combined 8th Convocation Ceremony of the institution, Comrade Alabi announced that 26,995 students from the 2020/2021, 2021/2022, 2022/2023, 2023/2024, and 2024/2025 academic sessions would be graduating.
The events began with a football match at the institution's sports field on Tuesday at 3:00 pm.
On Wednesday, March 25, 2026, a convocation lecture focusing on a globally trending issue, "Entrepreneurship in the Age of Artificial Intelligence: Opportunities for Wealth Creation and National Development," will be delivered by a renowned Professor of Business Administration from the Faculty of Management Sciences, Federal University of Oye-Ekiti, at 10:00 am. Later in the day, at 5:00 pm, the Rector's Cocktail party will be held at the Institution's Senior Staff Club.
The grand finale will take place on Thursday, March 26, 2026, where diplomas, certificates, and prizes will be awarded to the graduands.
The Visitor to the Institution and Governor of the State, Senator Nurudeen Jackson Ademola Adeleke, will serve as the Father of the Day at the program, while Dr. Adedeji Adeleke, Chairman of Pacific Holdings, will be the Special Guest of Honour.