May 02, (THEWILL) – The Federal Government has announced plans to revert all Federal Science and Technical Colleges (FSTCs) to their original names—Federal Technical Colleges (FTCs)—starting from September 2025.
Minister of State for Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, disclosed this in Abuja during a meeting with principals of Federal Unity Colleges, saying the move is part of a broader strategy to strengthen technical and vocational education across the country.
“It’s more than a name change,” Alausa said. “It signals a real shift in educational priorities, preparing students for a changing workforce, reducing youth unemployment, creating jobs, and promoting a technology-driven society. We are returning to a system that worked over 40 years ago.”
He added that the initiative is aimed at equipping Nigerian youths with industry-relevant skills to align education with the country’s economic goals.
The minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to engaging teachers and administrators directly, stressing the importance of their roles in improving the education system.
“You are on the frontlines, teaching our students and identifying areas that need attention. Education authorities will no longer remain distant from realities on the ground,” he said.
On the issue of overcrowding in schools, Alausa issued a stern warning against admitting students beyond approved capacities.
“If any school admits just one student over its current capacity, the principal will be removed the next day,” he warned.
He cited Federal Science and Technical College, Yaba, as a case where nearly 3,800 students were crammed into a facility not equipped to handle them. Even elite schools like King’s College, Lagos—originally built for fewer than 600 students—now house almost 2,500.
Alausa also directed principals to resist political interference during admissions.
“Anyone claiming to be a ‘minister’s candidate’ is not from me,” he said, urging school heads to strictly follow admission protocols.
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