Federal vs State Polytechnics: Differences in Fees and Quality

Federal and state polytechnics are two of the most common types of polytechnic institutions in Nigeria. Over time, there have been debates regarding which one is more affordable and better in terms of quality.

Well, if you’re one of those who have questions, this blog post would answer just that.

In this blog post, we will be carrying out a Federal vs State Polytechnics comparison. You wouldn’t want to miss reading this.

Federal Polytechnics

Federal Polytechnics are institutions owned and funded by the Federal Government of Nigeria. These polytechnics are scattered all around Nigeria across the six geopolitical zones.

This is to ensure that affordable education reaches all parts of the country. Along with that, these institutions are supervised by the Federal Ministry of Education and regulated under the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE).

Some examples of reputable Federal Polytechnics are:

• Federal Polytechnic, Nekede.

• Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro.

• Federal Polytechnic, Bida.

State Polytechnics

State Polytechnics are educational institutions owned and managed by the state governments in each state. These polytechnics were established to address the educational needs of each state.

As a result, serving as drivers for manpower development in these states. Just like the Federal Polytechnics counterparts, the state polytechnics are regulated by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE).

Some examples of reputable state polytechnics are:

• Lagos State Polytechnic (LASPOTECH)

• Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo

• Delta State Polytechnic, Ozoro

Differences In Fees Between These Two Polytechnics

Let’s consider the difference in free between these two polytechnics in Nigeria:

1. In Terms Of Tuition Fees

In terms of tuition fees amount, Federal Polytechnics have or demand for lower tuition fees compared to the state polytechnics. For instance, Federal polytechnics may have tuition fees that range from N30,000 — N60,000. On the other hand, state polytechnics could have tuition fees that range between N60,000 — N120,000.

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2. In Terms Of Other Secondary Charges

Both Federal and state polytechnics may demand extra secondary charges. Charges such as acceptance fees, development levies, and library fees are among a few of the other secondary charges. Even with that, Federal Polytechnics do charge less than state Polytechnics.

Reason For Differences In Fees

The major reason for the difference in this fee is due to the source of funding from these institutions. As stated earlier, federal polytechnics receive consistent funding from the federal government, and because of this, fees are subsidized for students.

However, state polytechnics usually depend on state allocations. The consistent nature of this allocation is dependent on each state. As a result, state polytechnic fees are usually higher than federal polytechnics.

Differences In Quality Between These Two Polytechnics

Here are the differences in quality observed between these two polytechnics:

1. In Terms Of Infrastructure and Facilities

In terms of infrastructure and facilities, federal polytechnics have well-equipped laboratories, libraries, and workshops. On the other hand, state governments may struggle with these facilities due to their limited source of funding.

However, that doesn’t mean that state polytechnics do not have these facilities or infrastructure. They may have, but not all state polytechnics can boast of state-of-the-art facilities compared to their federal polytechnic counterparts.

2. In Terms Of Staffs And Professionals

Federal Polytechnics also edges their state counterparts in this regard. For federal polytechnics, they tend to attract staff and lecturers. This is because of the better remuneration and working conditions that are in federal polytechnics. For State polytechnics, they could offer good staff and lecturers, but not all state polytechnics can boast of that.

3. In Terms Of Resources and Research

It is said that Federal polytechnics have more resources to carry out research and development. However, state polytechnics are more focused on teaching and practical skills.

Challenges Facing Both Federal and State Polytechnics

Here are the challenges facing both Federal and state polytechnics in Nigeria:

1. Infrastructure Decay and Lack Of Modern Equipment

Several students from both Federal and state polytechnics have complained of infrastructure decay and lack of modern equipment in their institutions.

This is especially notable in faculties like engineering and other technical disciplines where knowledge of this equipment is important. So, this is one of the most pertinent challenges facing polytechnics in Nigeria.

2. Political Interference In Administration

Many times there have been noticed political interference in the affairs of polytechnics in Nigeria. Even in the admission process, controversies regarding fairness have come up several times. As a result, this has affected the smooth running of operations in these polytechnics in Nigeria.

Conclusion

Now, your question has been answered. You’ve seen which polytechnic is better in terms of fees and quality. Well, if you have points you’d like to bring up, kindly do so in the comments section below.