YABATECH Advocates University-Traditional Partnerships

The Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) Council, led by Chairman Prof. Funso Afolabi, has called for stronger partnerships between universities and traditional institutions to foster national development. During an official visit to the Iyin Ekiti Kingdom, the council emphasized that Nigeria's development aspirations can be better achieved when educational institutions collaborate with traditional authorities to address societal challenges.

Prof. Afolabi noted that modern traditional rulers should evolve beyond ceremonial roles to become critical stakeholders in education and community development. He advocated for increased investment in technical and vocational education to combat unemployment and skill deficits among Nigerian youth.

The council also identified tourism, hospitality management, and environmental sustainability as key areas for collaboration. Oba Adeola Adeniyi Ajakaiye expressed optimism that YABATECH's expertise in technology and innovation could significantly contribute to developing indigenous security solutions, highlighting the importance of multi-stakeholder approaches involving government, educational institutions, and local communities.