The Founder of Prime Polytechnic, Archbishop Professor Benjamin Emeka Aniereobi, has expressed deep concern over persistent misconceptions about the institution, describing them as major obstacles to its growth and development.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with journalists in Lokoja on Monday, Archbishop Aniereobi lamented that despite the institution’s numerous achievements in the education sector, public misperceptions continue to hamper progress.
“Prime Polytechnic is not a glorified primary school,” he said. “It is one of the best polytechnics in Nigeria today. We are fully accredited by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) and equipped with state-of-the-art facilities. When NBTE officials visited us, they were astonished at the level of development they saw.”
He explained that since its establishment, the institution has graduated over 1,800 students, all of whom have participated in the mandatory National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme.
“Some people sit in their homes and criticize without even stepping into the school,” the Archbishop stated. “We encourage anyone with doubts to visit and conduct a physical assessment. Prime Polytechnic sits on 50 hectares of land and is a proud academic institution.”
He noted that the school is gaining wider recognition outside the state, with nearly 80 percent of its students coming from other parts of Nigeria and neighboring countries such as Cameroon and Niger Republic.
“We are the first polytechnic in Nigeria to begin operations from our permanent site. That alone speaks volumes about our commitment to excellence,” he asserted.
On the motivation behind establishing the institution, Prof. Aniereobi explained that it was born out of a desire to give back to society.
“Since 2012, we have been awarding scholarships to students, especially the less privileged. We offer accredited programmes in computer engineering, electrical/electronics engineering, accountancy, and computer science. Our goal is to ensure that every graduate from Prime Polytechnic becomes self-sufficient and employable,” he said.
Out Kogi State Correspondent, reports that the traditional ruler from Anambra State and General Overseer of the Light of God Churches also praised the former Governor of Kogi State for creating a secure environment that supports education.
“Security in Kogi is commendable. The former governor deserves accolades for making the state safe for learning and investment,” he said.
Refuting claims that the institution lacks the capacity to function as a higher education institution, Archbishop Aniereobi stated:
“We have well-equipped hostels with over 800-bed spaces, qualified lecturers, and vibrant student leadership. Since our inception, we’ve had nine Students’ Union Governments, mostly led by non-indigenes, which is proof of our diversity and inclusiveness.”
He further disclosed that the institution had signed memoranda of understanding with several higher institutions aimed at enhancing academic collaboration and quality learning.
“We are open to collaboration. Sadly, many private polytechnics in Nigeria are suffering due to insufficient support from both the federal and state governments. We urge the authorities to do more for private institutions contributing to national development.”
He reaffirmed Prime Polytechnic’s commitment to partnering with the Kogi State Government, particularly through scholarship schemes designed to help indigenes access quality education.
“We believe in Kogi State, and we are investing here. But the people must also believe in themselves. Let’s end the misconceptions and start supporting institutions that are working to make a difference,” he added.
Prof. Aniereobi called on citizens and stakeholders in the state to discard negative perceptions and embrace the institution as a credible force in the Nigerian educational system.
“Prime Polytechnic is not just surviving, it is thriving. I urge Kogites to visit, partner with us, and join in building a better future through education,” he concluded.
Copyright: Fresh Angle International (www.freshangleng.com)
ISSN 2354 - 4104
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