The story of Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) is taking a new turn. As Nigeria’s first polytechnic pushes toward becoming a specialised University of Technology and Vocational Studies, the school is opening its arms to industry partners. The latest handshake is with Lotus Bank, a non-interest financial institution with big plans to support young people and drive digital innovation.
The two institutions sealed this understanding during a meeting at the College’s Council Chamber. Leading the Lotus Bank team was the Chief Digital Officer, Mr Akin Adegoke, who sat alongside the Rector, Dr Engr. Ibrahim Adedotun Abdul, and other senior officials of the College. However, the agenda was not about loans or financial accounts. It was about how to give students practical skills, new opportunities, and better preparation for life after graduation.
Mr Adegoke, while describing YABATECH as the “landlord” of one of Lotus Bank’s major branches, stressed that the relationship must go deeper. “Our plan is not only about finance. We want to co-create a digital banking curriculum, sponsor annual hackathons, and build smart campus solutions that will prepare students for the future of work,” he said.
Lotus Bank already has a track record. In places like Lagos State University, University of Lagos, and University of Ilorin, the bank has helped introduce smart identity cards, digital payment systems, and community-focused projects. That is why the expectations at YABATECH are high.
For students, the offers are attractive. Plans include digital training, support for student cooperative financing, stronger Wi-Fi on campus, and online learning platforms. There is also talk of staff housing and joint certification programmes that will boost graduates’ employability.
Education watchers say this is a smart move. Dr Modupe Adebayo, an education technology analyst, told our reporter: “When schools open doors to industry, students see the real side of learning. They are not just memorising theories; they are connecting education to the world of work. YABATECH is showing others the way.”
For Rector Abdul, the partnership is a clear step toward his mission of making YABATECH graduates “irresistible in the labour market.” He also praised Lotus Bank’s approach, noting that the bank began with corporate social responsibility (CSR) before business. “That is proof of sincerity and long-term commitment,” he said. He linked the collaboration to the school’s ₦50 billion endowment fund, launched in 2022, which is meant to modernise infrastructure and encourage innovation.
Beyond the big numbers, the real impact will be on students’ daily lives. For instance, there are discussions to create a single smart ID card that could serve as a library pass, a payment card, and even a transport ticket. Then there is also a plan for hackathons where students compete to solve Nigeria’s pressing problems, backed by a bank ready to invest in their ideas. That is the future YABATECH and Lotus Bank are promising.
The roll-out will be in phases, starting with smart ID cards and digital payments on campus. However, the message is already clear: this is more than a partnership; it is a roadmap for student empowerment, modern infrastructure, and a stronger link between education and industry.
Experts have applauded the initiative for its inherent potential to create jobs and empower students. More so, they noted that it sends a strong reminder that education cannot walk alone; it must move hand in hand with industry to give young Nigerians hope, skills, and opportunities.
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