Delta Poly Rector Proffers Solution to University–Polytechnic Dichotomy

By Kparobo Ehvwubare

Otefe-Oghara, Delta State — The Rector of Delta State Polytechnic, Otefe-Oghara, Professor Emmanuel Ufuopho-Biri, has described the long-standing dichotomy between university and polytechnic lecturers as needless, arguing that both categories of educators possess similar academic qualifications obtained from the same universities.

Professor Ufuopho-Biri stated this while addressing participants at the National Conference of the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) held at the Chief James Onanefe Ibori Auditorium of the institution.

He maintained that polytechnic lecturers deserve the opportunity to attain the rank of Associate Professor, stressing that since education and academic ranking fall under the Concurrent Legislative List, state governments have the legal authority to address the disparity.

“The issue of dichotomy between university and polytechnic lecturers is unnecessary,” the Rector said. “We all attended the same universities and hold the same qualifications. State governments should therefore enact laws to eliminate this needless discrimination.”

Professor Biri urged state governments to take proactive steps toward ending the disparity in recognition, promotion, and status between university and polytechnic lecturers, noting that doing so would promote fairness and strengthen the nation’s tertiary education system.

The conference, which drew participants from polytechnics across the country, focused on improving academic standards, staff welfare, and policies promoting parity in Nigeria’s higher education sector.