The Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) on Thursday matriculated 17,130 students for 2025/2026 academic session, tasking them to champion technology, innovation, entrepreneurship, and shun cultism.

Speaking, the Rector of YABATECH, Dr. Ibraheem Abdul, disclosed that 24,655 candidates applied, while 17,130 secured admission into National Diploma, Higher National Diploma, and B.Sc Education programmes after rigorous screening exercises.

There is an ongoing academic affiliation between the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) and YABATECH.

This affiliation allows YABATECH to run Bachelor of Science in Education degree programmes on its campus, while UNN accredits the curriculum, moderates examinations, and, ultimately, awards the degree.

Mr Abdul described the matriculating students as future leaders, innovators and change-makers whose academic journey would shape their personal character, professional growth, national development and global competitiveness in diverse fields.

“The nation looks to your generation for solutions in technology, innovation, entrepreneurship and sustainable development. YABATECH is ready to equip you through determination, discipline and unwavering academic focus,” he said.

The rector informed the new students that President Bola Tinubu had granted approval for the institution’s transition into a Technical and Vocational University, describing it as recognition of the institution’s longstanding excellence

He said, “This landmark milestone strategically strengthens skills-based education, innovation and industrial development, while supporting government’s drive for youth empowerment, job creation and economic diversification nationwide.”

Mr Abdul warned students against cultism, examination malpractice, bullying and drug abuse, declaring that any student involved in cult-related activities would face expulsion and possible prosecution.

“Choose honour, discipline and academic excellence, the opportunities before you are enormous. Join recognised academic societies, professional clubs, and student associations to develop leadership skills and build networks.

“We have strengthened industry-academia partnerships with leading organisations, expanded digital infrastructure, secured substantial research grants, and produced innovations such as the PlastoGas Hub that have attracted international recognition.

“Make full use of our workshops, laboratories, studios, and ICT facilities. Regular lecture attendance is mandatory, you must attain the minimum 75 per cent class attendance required by the institution and the NBTE,” Mr Abdul said.

In his remarks at the matriculation programme, the Vice-Chancellor of University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), Prof. Simon Ortuanya, urged the newly admitted students of the University of Nigeria to embrace discipline, innovation and excellence.

The vice-chancellor represented by Prof. Catherine Ogbuanya, Dean, Vocational Studies, UNN, noted that the admission reflected merit, perseverance and responsibility towards societal transformation through quality education and character.

Mr Ortuanya said: “As you stand on this historic threshold, remember Nelson Mandela said, ‘Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.’ You must therefore pursue knowledge, integrity and purposeful leadership diligently.”

He warned against examination malpractice, cultism, drug abuse and misconduct, emphasising the university’s zero tolerance for indiscipline.

The vice-chancellor encouraged critical thinking, research, entrepreneurship and holistic development for global competitiveness and leadership.

“Martin Luther King Jr. stated that ‘intelligence plus character is the goal of true education’. We are committed to producing graduates distinguished in learning, innovation, discipline, integrity and service to humanity,” the vice-chancellor added. 

(NAN)