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The Association of Private Polytechnics in Nigeria (APPN) has welcomed the Federal Government’s plan to abolish the Higher National Diploma (HND) dichotomy, describing it as a major policy shift.
The association said the reform would strengthen technical education and improve Nigeria’s technological workforce.
Reform to Boost Technical Education
The APPN President said the policy aligns with the Federal Government’s education reform agenda. According to him, the move will elevate technical education and preserve its relevance in national development.
He also expressed confidence that the reform would encourage more students to choose polytechnics for higher education.
Polytechnics to Award Degrees
Recently, the Minister of Education announced that polytechnics would gain the power to award degrees following the removal of the HND dichotomy.
The reform proposes converting the HND qualification into a Bachelor of Technology (BTech) honours degree. Supporters say this will enhance the status of polytechnics and improve career prospects for graduates and lecturers.
Regulatory Framework Explained
The association explained that the reform includes restructuring the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) into a full commission.
Under the plan, the NBTE would retain authority to regulate and accredit polytechnics, even as they begin awarding degrees. The association noted that this approach would ensure quality control without undermining existing education structures.
Legislative Progress
According to the association, the reform plan has two main parts. The first allows polytechnics to award BTech honours degrees. The second focuses on transforming the NBTE into a commission.
Both proposals have passed the second reading at the National Assembly, signaling progress toward implementation.
