EKITI STATE COLLEGE OF TECHNOLOGY, IJERO GETS NBTE ACCREDITATION FOR 5 PROGRAMMES

The National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) has officially granted approval to Ekiti State College of Technology, Ijero (EKSCOTECH) to commence five new academic programs in the 2025/2026 session, marking a significant milestone in the college’s continuous effort to expand its academic offerings and provide high-quality technical education. This development comes as part of the institution’s broader commitment to producing highly skilled graduates capable of contributing meaningfully to Nigeria’s workforce and economic development.

According to an official letter signed by Pharm. Ibrahim Salihu, Acting Director of the Nursing and Health Sciences Programmes Department at NBTE, the approval followed a comprehensive resource inspection conducted by the board on December 9-10, 2025. The inspection assessed the college’s facilities, academic staff strength, laboratory resources, equipment, and readiness to deliver these specialized programs.

The newly approved programs for the 2025/2026 session are:

1. ND Medical Laboratory Technology – This program is designed to equip students with the practical skills and theoretical knowledge required for diagnostic testing and laboratory analysis. Graduates will be prepared to work in hospitals, research laboratories, public health institutions, and private diagnostic centers. The program emphasizes quality assurance, laboratory management, and emerging technologies in medical diagnostics.
2. ND Orthopedic Cast Technology – Focused on producing skilled technicians in orthopedic care, this program addresses the growing need for trained professionals in orthopedic departments. Students will learn to manufacture, apply, and manage orthopedic casts and supportive devices, ensuring that patients receive safe and effective musculoskeletal care.
3. ND Health Education and Promotion – This course prepares students to design, implement, and evaluate health promotion programs in communities, schools, and organizations. Graduates will acquire expertise in behavior change communication, public health policy, and community engagement strategies, equipping them to address public health challenges at grassroots and national levels.
4. ND Medical Imaging Technology – As modern healthcare increasingly relies on advanced imaging for diagnosis and treatment, this program trains students in radiography, ultrasound, CT scans, MRI, and other imaging modalities. Students gain hands-on experience with imaging equipment and learn patient care, safety protocols, and image interpretation techniques.
5. HND Networking and Cloud Computing – This program focuses on the IT and technological sector, aiming to produce graduates proficient in networking, cloud architecture, cybersecurity, and IT infrastructure management. It responds to the growing demand for skilled IT professionals in Nigeria and globally, particularly in enterprise solutions, software development, and digital transformation initiatives.

Commenting on this significant development, EKSCOTECH’s Rector, Dr. Olufemi Olubamise, praised the NBTE for the thorough and rigorous inspection process. “We are immensely pleased with NBTE’s approval of these new programs, which will broaden the academic horizon for our students and equip them with relevant skills that are in high demand,” Dr. Olubamise stated. He further emphasized that the college remains committed to maintaining international standards in technical and vocational education, ensuring that graduates are not only employable but also innovative contributors to their respective sectors.

In addition to the approval of new programs, NBTE has also granted full accreditation for five existing programs at EKSCOTECH, reflecting the college’s adherence to quality standards in technical education. The accredited programs are:

1. ND Dental Surgery – Prepares students to become competent dental practitioners, emphasizing both theoretical knowledge and practical clinical skills. Graduates are equipped to work in private dental practices, hospitals, and public health clinics.
2. ND Dental Therapy – Focuses on preventive dental care, oral hygiene education, and basic clinical procedures, aimed at enhancing community oral health outcomes.
3. ND Community Health – This program trains students to work in primary healthcare settings, focusing on preventive medicine, health promotion, and community-based interventions to improve public health indicators.
4. ND Public Health Technology – Equips students with knowledge and skills to manage public health programs, monitor disease outbreaks, and implement health policies effectively at community and state levels.
5. ND Paramedics – Trains students in emergency medical response, pre-hospital care, and patient transport systems. Graduates are prepared to serve in ambulances, emergency departments, and disaster response units.

“The accreditation of these programs is a testament to EKSCOTECH’s unwavering commitment to academic excellence,” said Dr. Olubamise. “It also assures students, parents, and stakeholders that our graduates are competent, skilled, and ready to contribute effectively to society.”

The Significance of NBTE Approval and Accreditation

NBTE approval and accreditation are crucial benchmarks for technical and vocational education in Nigeria. Approval for new programs ensures that institutions have the requisite staff, facilities, and curriculum to deliver education that meets national standards. Accreditation of existing programs guarantees that the courses offered are of high quality, and that graduates meet professional and industry expectations. These processes are critical in safeguarding the integrity of technical education and ensuring that students’ qualifications are recognized nationally and internationally.

EKSCOTECH’s latest approvals and accreditations reflect a broader national goal: to strengthen technical and vocational education and training (TVET) in Nigeria. With rapid technological advancements and growing public health needs, institutions like EKSCOTECH play a pivotal role in producing professionals capable of addressing contemporary societal challenges.

Program Relevance and Career Opportunities

The newly approved programs target sectors experiencing high demand for skilled professionals.

• Medical Laboratory Technology addresses the growing need for qualified laboratory scientists in hospitals and research institutions, supporting accurate diagnoses and treatment outcomes.
• Orthopedic Cast Technology meets the rising requirement for orthopedic specialists, particularly with increasing incidences of accidents and musculoskeletal disorders.
• Health Education and Promotion equips students to tackle pressing public health issues such as immunization awareness, disease prevention, and community health advocacy.
• Medical Imaging Technology aligns with modern diagnostic practices, ensuring that healthcare systems have skilled personnel to operate advanced imaging equipment.
• Networking and Cloud Computing responds to the digital transformation across sectors, producing graduates capable of managing IT infrastructure, securing networks, and supporting cloud-based solutions in businesses and government.

Similarly, the accredited programs in dental sciences, community health, public health technology, and paramedics continue to address critical workforce gaps in healthcare delivery, emergency response, and public health management. By maintaining these accredited programs, EKSCOTECH ensures continuity in producing professionals who can meet societal needs effectively.

College Commitment to Excellence

EKSCOTECH’s management has reiterated its dedication to providing quality education through well-structured curricula, practical training, and continuous faculty development. Dr. Olubamise highlighted the institution’s investment in state-of-the-art laboratories, library facilities, IT infrastructure, and student support services. These resources ensure that students not only learn theoretical concepts but also gain practical, hands-on experience that prepares them for real-world challenges.

“Our goal is to produce graduates who are industry-ready, innovative, and capable of contributing meaningfully to Nigeria’s economy and health sector,” said the Rector. “We are confident that the new programs and continued accreditation of existing courses will further cement EKSCOTECH’s reputation as a center of excellence in technical and vocational education.”

Student Guidance and Enrollment

Prospective students interested in the new programs are encouraged to visit the college’s official website and admissions portal for detailed information on program requirements, registration procedures, and deadlines. EKSCOTECH has ensured that all application processes are streamlined and accessible, making it easier for qualified candidates to secure admission into these newly approved courses.

In addition, current students and staff are advised to familiarize themselves with the curriculum, program objectives, and career pathways associated with the new and accredited programs. Orientation sessions, academic advisories, and workshops will be conducted to guide students through their academic journey and ensure that they maximize the learning opportunities available at EKSCOTECH.

Conclusion

The approval of five new programs and the accreditation of five others at Ekiti State College of Technology, Ijero, represents a landmark achievement in the institution’s ongoing commitment to quality technical education. These developments will not only enhance the college’s academic offerings but also expand career opportunities for students, strengthen the healthcare and technology sectors, and contribute to national development.

Dr. Olubamise and the EKSCOTECH management reaffirm their pledge to maintain high standards of education, promote innovative teaching practices, and produce graduates who are equipped to meet the dynamic demands of today’s workforce.

As the 2025/2026 session unfolds, EKSCOTECH stands poised to welcome a new generation of students into its innovative programs, providing them with the tools, knowledge, and practical skills necessary to succeed in their chosen professions and contribute to Nigeria’s growth.