Federal Polytechnic Oko is making headlines with a flurry of positive developments, including the re-accreditation of key programs, the full accreditation of its Skill Development Centre, and strong student solidarity with the current Rector. These advancements underscore the institution's commitment to academic excellence, practical training, and a conducive learning environment.
Program Re-Accreditation and New Offerings:
The National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) has granted re-accreditation to several programs offered at Federal Polytechnic Oko for a period of five years, effective from the 2025/2026 academic session. These include:
HND Hospitality Management and Technology
ND Horticultural Technology
HND Mechanical Engineering Technology (Manufacturing option)
ND Marketing
HND Surveying and Geo-Informatics
ND Agricultural Technology
In a further boost to its academic portfolio, the NBTE also approved the commencement of new programs from the 2025/2026 session:
HND Science Laboratory Technology (Biochemistry/Microbiology)
HND Science Laboratory Technology (Biochemistry)
ND Geological Technology
This successful outcome follows a recent accreditation visitation and resource inspection by NBTE officials in April 2025, demonstrating the polytechnic's adherence to regulatory standards.
Skill Development Centre Fully Accredited:
In a landmark achievement, the Skill Development Centre (SDC) of Federal Polytechnic Oko has received full accreditation from the NBTE. This accreditation authorizes the centre to offer vocational training under the National Skills Qualifications Framework (NSQF) in critical trade areas such as Automobile Mechanics, Bricklaying, Blocklaying & Concreting, Electrical Installations, Fashion Design & Garment Making, Feeds Production, Networking and Systems Security Installations, Satellite & CCTV Installations and Maintenance, and Welding & Fabrication.
The commissioning of the skill acquisition center in May 2025 by the Chairman of the 12th Governing Council, Senator Dr. Barnabas Gemade, further highlighted the institution's focus on empowering students and the public with practical, employable skills. Rector Dr. Chioma Irene Awuzie emphasized that the center is a core part of her mission to provide useful skills and enhance the polytechnic's internally generated revenue (IGR).
Student Body Shows Strong Support for Rector:
Students of Federal Polytechnic Oko recently staged a peaceful protest in solidarity with the substantive Rector, Dr. Chioma Irene Awuzie. Led by the Student Union President, Comrade Chinecherem Odumegwu, the students displayed placards affirming their support for Dr. Awuzie, citing her numerous developmental projects and student-friendly initiatives.
The SUG President highlighted achievements such as the student work-aid program, reduction of school fees, resuscitation of the Polytechnic Press, and reactivation of the water factory and bakery, all contributing to a new lease of life for the students. The Governing Council Chairman, Senator Dr. Barnabas Gemade, commended the students for their orderly conduct and reiterated the Council's satisfaction with the progress under Dr. Awuzie's leadership.
Other Notable Developments:
Amnesty Examination for Overstayed Students: The Polytechnic Management announced in September 2024 its decision to set an amnesty examination for students who have overstayed their program validity due to failed courses, offering a crucial opportunity for them to graduate.
Abolishment of Unlawful Fees: The management has also taken steps to abolish unlawful fees collected in departments and is working towards harmonizing existing fees, as well as scrapping payments for crests and pin-ups.
Resumption of Oko Poly Table Water Factory: The Oko Poly Table Water Factory has resumed production after a three-year hiatus, following the intervention of the Rector. This initiative aims to serve the needs of the polytechnic community and beyond, while also boosting the institution's IGR.
Affiliation Bid from Anambra State Polytechnic: The Anambra State Polytechnic, Mgbakwu, has sought affiliation with Federal Polytechnic Oko to run Higher National Diploma (HND) programs, recognizing Oko Poly's expertise in this area.
Federal Polytechnic Oko continues to demonstrate its commitment to providing quality technical and vocational education, fostering skill development, and ensuring a supportive environment for its students under the dynamic leadership of Dr. Chioma Irene Awuzie.
