FUTA, Osun College of Technology Moot Collaboration on HND/B.Tech Top-Up Programme

FADEYI TOLULOPE AYOBAMI

The Federal University of Technology, Akure, FUTA, and the Osun State College of Technology, Esa-Oke, OSCOTECH, have taken a significant step toward strengthening academic collaboration with discussions on a framework for a HND/B.Tech Conversion and Top-Up Programme.

The meeting which held at FUTA on Tuesday, 25 March, 2025 brought together Principal Officers and key representatives from both Institutions to explore opportunities for expanding educational access and developing highly skilled manpower for Nigeria and beyond.

The partnership aims to bridge the gap between HND and B.Tech holders, enhancing professional qualifications and career prospects for polytechnic graduates. It also reinforces FUTA’s leadership in technology-driven education and its dedication to fostering academic excellence through strategic alliances.

Speaking on the purpose of the collaboration initiated by OSCOTECH, FUTA’s Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic), Professor Timothy Amos highlighted the importance of the collaboration in bridging the gap between HND and B.Tech qualifications.

He noted that FUTA’s strong technological base and academic excellence would ensure that the programme meets global standards.
In his words, “This partnership is designed to provide polytechnic graduates with an opportunity to upgrade their qualifications in line with industry demands. At FUTA, we are committed to ensuring that the curriculum is robust and relevant, equipping students with the skills needed to thrive in today’s competitive job market”.

In his statement of intent, the Rector of OSCOTECH, Dr. Samson Adegoke commended FUTA for its leadership in technological education and emphasized that the collaboration would open new doors for students seeking academic and professional advancement, adding that the initiative aligns with OSCOTECH’s vision to enhance the career prospects of its graduates. He recalled that his Institution already enjoyed a robust relationship with FUTA off the books and only wanted to make such things as staff exchange, staff and student training, among others officially documented.

He said, “We are optimistic that this partnership will yield remarkable outcomes, not just for the participating Institutions but for the entire education sector in Nigeria”.

In her response, FUTA’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Adenike Oladiji, described the initiative as a crucial step in fulfilling the University’s core mandate. She expressed satisfaction with the partnership, emphasizing that FUTA is at the forefront of technological advancement in the nation and remains committed to problem-solving through innovation.

“This collaboration presents an opportunity to develop manpower for our country and other nations. It is a strategic move to strengthen our educational system and provide enormous benefits through partnership,” she stated.

Professor Oladiji further noted that the Top-Up Centre is still in its early stages, but there is a clear vision to expand access to quality education, ensuring that the programme delivers the services Nigeria urgently needs.