MAPOLY alumni urge new students to embrace skill acquisition and seek higher funding

The National President of Moshood Abiola Polytechnic Alumni Association (MAPALUM), Alhaji Ayinde Soaga, has urged newly admitted students of Moshood Abiola Polytechnic (MAPOLY), Abeokuta, to prioritize practical skills alongside academic qualifications to enhance self-reliance.

Soaga made the charge on Tuesday during a press conference held on the institute’s campus ahead of the 2025/2026 matriculation ceremony and inaugural lecture themed “Building a Solid Foundation:

The synergy of character and competence”, scheduled at the Main Auditorium of the OGD.

He highlighted that in Nigeria’s current economic reality, mere possession of certificates no longer guarantees employment or financial stability, urging students to maximize the entrepreneurial and practical components integrated into their curriculum.

The alumni president encouraged students to become job creators rather than job seekers, while upholding the institution’s core values ​​through academic excellence and positive conduct.

He said: “Academic certificates alone are no longer sufficient. Students must leverage the practical skills on their CV to become self-sufficient and employers.”
Soaga also took the opportunity to appeal to the Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, to increase the monthly subsidy of the institution, stressing that polytechnic education requires significant investment due to its emphasis on practical training and technical skills.

“Polytechnic education is about practical skills that require adequate funding of accredited programmes. We call on the government to review and increase the monthly allocation to MAPOLY,” he said.

The association is committed to complementing government efforts by mobilizing support from alumni, stakeholders and development partners within and outside Nigeria, focusing on infrastructure, scholarships and strategic interventions.

As part of its initiatives, MAPALUM has announced plans to raise funds for the rehabilitation of main roads within the campus to improve the learning environment.

Soaga also called on the media to amplify the institution’s achievements to attract support from businesses and individuals.

Highlighting the institution’s legacy, he listed notable alumni who have distinguished themselves in the governance, public service, corporate and creative sectors, expressing confidence that MAPOLY will continue to produce globally competitive graduates.

The alumni body reiterated its commitment to supporting the institution in upholding its tradition of excellence and nurturing future leaders, innovators and change-makers.

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