The Yaba College of Technology, YABATECH, has held a 3-day retreat with a resolve to chart a strategic direction for the institution for the next four years.

The event which was held at the Parkview Astoria Hotel, Ikoyi Lagos, from September 6 to 8, 2024 was attended by members of the Governing Council and Principal Officers of Yaba College of Technology.

The retreat aimed to strengthen team building, share experiences, and establish a strategic direction for the institution from 2024 to 2028.
The communique was signed by Dr. Engr. I. A. Abdul, Rector, and Dr. E.J.A. Akinwale, Ag. Registrar/Secretary to Council.
Chairman of the Governing Council, Professor Funsho Isolaowa Afolabi, in his presentation said:
“The ultimate goal is to establish a strategic direction for Yaba College of Technology from 2024 to 2028.”

The retreat emphasized the importance of best practices in governance, blended with due process, to foster diversity and inclusiveness. Team building was highlighted as the basis for success, with a focus on structuring Council and Management relations to avoid confrontation and realize the institution’s vision and mission.

To achieve this, the Synergy Council expanded its scope by forming Committees for synergy and bonding, strengthening its supervisory role in governance and management. Group discussions centered on staff development, performance management, and funding strategies, with a focus on bridging gaps in service delivery and establishing a performance framework with set criteria.

Other notable speakers included Prince Lateef O. Fagbemi, SAN, who spoke on “Best Practices in Governance of the Polytechnic System,” and Professor Rahamon Bello, who emphasized the importance of team building. “Team building is the basis for success,” he said.

The Rector, Dr. Engr. Ibraheem Adedotun Abdul, presented a paper on the 2024-2028 Strategic Plan and the ERECT Agenda.
“We must harness all strategic resources to guide the government through its adopted roadmap to transform the Polytechnic sector.
“We need to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical, entrepreneurial skills,” said Dr. Abdul.

The retreat featured group discussions on staff development, performance management, and funding strategies. Participants also discussed current challenges, including the dichotomy between HND and degree holders and the need for a Polytechnic Commission to empower the institution to run dual-mode degrees.

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The retreat adopted the slogan, “YABATECH TEAM FOREVER,” while also emphasising the need for institutional branding and recognition of the college’s capabilities.

According to Dr. Akinwale, Ag. Registrar/Secretary to the council, the school is committed to shaping the future, stating, “We are committed to shaping the future of Yaba College of Technology,” he said.