By DAYO ADESULU
The Management of Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) has charged newly elected Deans of Schools and Heads of Departments (HODs) to embrace a transformative, university-driven mindset anchored on integrity, innovation and accountability as the institution positions itself for a major transition.
This charge was given during a one-day induction training workshop organised by the College’s Staff Development Department of the Registry Unit for the new academic leaders, held last on Thursday, at the Academic Board Room of the institution.
Addressing participants, the Rector, Dr Engr Ibraheem Abdul, described their emergence as a “defining moment” in the history of the College, noting that the institution stands on the threshold of a major transformation as it approaches its 80th anniversary.
He emphasised that the vision of the College is rooted in a “unification of purpose,” urging the new leaders to leverage their positions as platforms for impactful change.
“You have been given a platform; use it positively to transform your departments and schools exponentially,” he said, stressing that leadership must be driven by vision, commitment and a growth mindset.
The Rector disclosed that YABATECH is already making strategic moves towards attaining a university status, following high-level engagements with the Federal Ministry of Education.
He added that the institution must not only attain that status but also rank among the top universities in Nigeria.
“We do not want to start from the bottom. We want to remain at the top, even within the university system. That requires innovation, research excellence, and rigorous academic standards comparable to global best practices,” he stated.
Dr. Abdul challenged the Deans and HODs to promote academic excellence by discouraging outdated teaching practices, encouraging critical thinking, and fostering research and innovation among students and staff.
On ethics and governance, the Rector declared zero tolerance for corruption, extortion and exploitation of students, warning that heads of departments would be held accountable for any infractions within their domains.
“Henceforth, any case of unauthorised fees, bribery or exploitation traced to any department will be treated as a failure of leadership. Cover-ups will attract serious consequences,” he warned.
He further directed all departments to transparently declare all approved charges payable by students, in line with federal directives and in preparation for participation in the student loan scheme.
The Rector also underscored the importance of creating a conducive academic environment, free from toxicity, victimisation and administrative bias, noting that no meaningful innovation can thrive in a hostile system.
He encouraged the participants to establish safe and confidential reporting channels for students and staff to report misconduct without fear of retaliation.
Highlighting the need for resourcefulness, the Rector urged academic leaders to explore innovative, internally generated revenue opportunities within their departments, citing past initiatives that transformed underutilised facilities into income-generating ventures.
He maintained that with its strategic location, large student population and available resources, the College possesses vast potential for growth and sustainability.
The workshop also focused on instilling a culture of accountability, transparency and student-centred leadership, with the Rector describing students as the “diamonds” of the institution who must be nurtured and protected.
“As we build a university rooted in integrity and excellence, your role as leaders is critical. The future of this institution depends on the decisions you make today,” he said.
The induction programme forms part of YABATECH’s broader strategy to reposition itself for global relevance and institutional excellence.
