FONPAA COMMENDS PLATEAU STATE POLYTECHNIC ALUMNI FOR SUCCESSFUL HOSTING OF QUARTERLY MEETING
The Forum of Nigerian Polytechnic Alumni Associations (FONPAA) has extended heartfelt commendations to the Plateau State Polytechnic Alumni Association led by Dr. Nanzing Ndem for the successful hosting of its recent Quarterly Meeting held in Jos, Plateau State.
In a statement issued by the FONPAA National Secretariat, the Forum praised the Plateau State Polytechnic Alumni for their exceptional coordination and warm hospitality throughout the event.
The National President Rt. Hon Abba Anas Adamu particularly acknowledged the strategic courtesy visits facilitated by the host alumni association to the Rector of Plateau State Polytechnic and to His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Plateau State, who was ably represented by the Deputy Governor, Her Excellency Josephine Piyo.
“These engagements added immense value to our gathering and further strengthened our collective mission to promote and advance polytechnic education in Nigeria,” Hon. Abba Anas Adamu stated.
During the meeting, FONPAA recognized the contributions of notable alumni and dignitaries, including: HRM Da Jacob Gyang Buba, OON, Gbong Gwom Jos and Chairman, Plateau State Traditional Council of Chiefs and Emirs. HRH Alh. (Dr.) Muhammadu Mu’azu Muhammad, Emir of Kanam and Grand Patron, Plateau State Polytechnic Barkin Ladi
Dr. Clement S. Chirman , Rector, Plateau State Polytechnic
Dr. Mrs. Kacholam Pyam Gyang, Plateau State Commissioner for Education
In his remarks, the Rector Dr, Chirman—himself an alumnus of the Polytechnic—emphasized the importance of evaluating graduates based on skills and performance rather than their certificate titles or the institutions they attended. He called for an end to the dichotomy between Higher National Diploma (HND) and university degrees.
Commissioner for Education, Dr. Gyang, reiterated the importance of polytechnic education as the backbone of technological advancement in any nation. Similarly, the Emir of Kanam underscored the role of skill acquisition in curbing unemployment and fostering sustainable development.
Receiving the FONPAA delegation at Government House, Governor Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang , through his Deputy, reaffirmed the Plateau State Government’s commitment to revitalizing the educational sector. He noted that the Plateau State Polytechnic, which was previously underperforming, has now been restored to excellence and is among the best in the country.
Deputy Governor Josephine Piyo urged alumni associations across the nation to give back to their alma mater, promising to convey FONPAA’s message to the Governor. She also assured the delegation that the administration remains committed to addressing the lingering issue of HND-B.Sc. disparity and promoting fairness and equity in education.
FONPAA National President, Hon. Abba Anas Adamu, praised the Plateau State Polytechnic Alumni Association ably led by Dr. Nanzing for their outstanding hospitality, organization, and the success of the gala night, which blended purpose, fellowship, and celebration seamlessly. He also extended appreciation to:
Pastor Enoch Opaleke, FONPAA National Vice President (North) and Event Coordinator,
Comrade Mangai Musa, Chairman, Local Organizing Committee
The FONPAA Secretariat of Nze Henry Chukwuka Nnebe, and Comrade Gbenga Babalola (FONPAA National Secretary and Director of Publicity)
Key Resolutions from the Jos Meeting:
- Alumni Associations are partners, not competitors, with institutional management and should be supported in promoting the growth and reputation of their institutions.
- All forms of discrimination and dichotomy between HND and B.Sc. holders should be abolished in the Nigerian education system.
- Funding of tertiary education should be equitable, and polytechnics should receive a fair share of government allocations.
- Polytechnics should be empowered to award B.Tech and M.Tech degrees, in line with global best practices.
- Full implementation of the 2019 Polytechnic Amendment Act should be ensured, particularly provisions empowering Alumni Associations to in the Governing Council and operate independently of management interference.
- Polytechnic managements should respect and allow Alumni Associations to function according to their constitutions.
FONPAA looks forward to continued collaboration with Plateau State Polytechnic Alumni Association and all member bodies as it works to champion the advancement of polytechnic education in Nigeria.
Nze Henry Chukwuka Nnebe
National Secretary
Forum of Nigeria Polytechnics Alumni Associations
(FONPAA)
