The House Committee expressed commitment to ensuring qualitative education, including STEM, is made accessible to all
Chairman of the House of Representatives’ Committee on Federal Polytechnics and Higher Education, Rep. Fuad Kayode Laguda (APC Lagos), has called on relevant authorities to prioritize science and health technology as a strategic move to drive economic growth, improve living standards, and address societal challenges.
Laguda made this appeal on Monday during a public hearing on three bills, emphasizing that a focus on science, technology, vocational, and technical education is crucial for sustainable development.
The bills under consideration include: a Bill for an Act to amend the Federal Polytechnics Act.Cap.F17. Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2010 to establish Federal College of Science and Health Technology, Mbu Isiuzo, Enugu State to provide qualitative education in sciences, health, arts and other technical knowledge; and for related matters (HB.589) sponsored by Rep. Paul Sunday Nnamchi; a Bill for an Act to amend the Federal Polytechnics Acts.Cap.F17, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2010 to establish Federal Institute of Technology and Entrepreneurship, Bungudu, Zamfara state to provide qualitative education and for related matters (HB.497) Rep. Abdulmalik Zubairu; and a Bill for an Act to amend the Federal Polytechnics Act 2010, to Establish Federal Institute of technical and vocational education, Imeko, Ogun State for the purpose of providing qualitative education in technical vocational education and for related matters (HB.506) – sponsored Rep. Adegboyega Nasir Isiaka.
Highlighting the timeliness and importance of these bills, Rep. Laguda stated, “At this juncture of our development, we cannot underestimate the importance of science, technology, vocational, and technical education as the key drivers of our socio-economic development. Prioritizing science and health technology is essential for economic growth, improving living standards, and addressing societal challenges.”
He added that effective training in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) is vital for equipping the youth with the necessary skills to thrive in a technologically driven global economy. The passage of these bills, according to Laguda, would not only empower the workforce technologically but also tackle issues such as unemployment, wealth creation, poverty reduction, and promote a self-reliant society.
“There is a need for purposeful deliberation and positive inputs by key stakeholders in the educational sector. This is why the committee has invited you here today, to obtain informed opinions and inputs on the Bills, in order to further enrich the content and intent of the proposed laws,” Laguda said.
He expressed gratitude to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Tajudeen Abbas (APC Kaduna) for his continued support to the committee, urging all stakeholders to work together towards the successful passage of these Bills for the overall benefit of the citizens and the nation at large.
Represented by the Deputy Majority Leader of the House, Rep. Abdullahi Halims ( APC Kogi) , the Speaker highlighted the importance of appropriate legislation in assuring access to quality education, improving infrastructure, enhancing teacher productivity, and fostering digital learning. He expressed concern that over 60 percent of graduates in Nigeria are unemployed and underemployed. He therefore reiterated the commitment to making quality education accessible to all.
