The Federal Government has been urged to merge underperforming universities across the country to ensure the success of the five-year moratorium on the establishment of new universities.
The Vice-Chancellor of Bowen University, Iwo, Osun State, Professor Jonathan Babalola, made the call during a media chat to herald the institution’s 20th convocation ceremony.
Professor Babalola noted that many of the existing public universities were established for political reasons rather than genuine educational needs, describing them as “politically motivated projects” used by politicians to score points in their constituencies.
He maintained that merging such institutions would enhance efficiency, optimize resources, and strengthen the quality of higher education in Nigeria.
The Vice-Chancellor also urged the Federal Government to restore the original status and dignity of polytechnics, emphasizing their vital role in producing skilled technologists required for the nation’s industrial and technological advancement.
Professor Babalola condemned the trend of converting polytechnics into universities, stressing that both institutions serve distinct but complementary purposes in Nigeria’s educational system.
According to him, while universities focus on theoretical and research-based learning, polytechnics are designed to provide hands-on technical training essential for national development.
He further reiterated Bowen University’s commitment to academic excellence, moral discipline, and technological innovation as the institution marks two decades of impactful contribution to Nigeria’s education sector.
