0
0
Tinubu Government Set to Scrap HND, Empower Polytechnics to Award Degrees
The Bola Tinubu administration has announced plans to scrap the Higher National Diploma (HND) and empower polytechnics to award degrees. The move aims to end decades of bias against polytechnic graduates and improve their career prospects.
The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, revealed the policy on Wednesday in Abuja during a high-level retreat for council chairmen, rectors, and other education stakeholders.
Ending Discrimination Against Polytechnic Graduates
Dr. Alausa said the policy will eliminate the long-standing divide between HND holders and university graduates. For years, this gap has limited technical graduates’ professional recognition and career growth.
He emphasized that polytechnics will now be recognized as equal partners in national development, not inferior to universities. “Nigeria’s future depends on a workforce capable of creating, building, and solving real-world problems,” Alausa said.
Degree-Awarding Status and Quality Assurance
Under the new policy, polytechnics will gain degree-awarding status. The government will enforce strict regulatory frameworks to ensure that degrees meet global standards.
Dr. Alausa also warned polytechnic administrators to uphold transparency and accountability, with zero tolerance for corruption.
In addition, the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) will provide special interventions to upgrade engineering schools with modern equipment.
Focus on Innovation and Technical Skills
The minister encouraged polytechnic leaders to embrace innovation in renewable energy, digital manufacturing, and applied technology. He stressed that upgrading polytechnic education is critical for Nigeria’s youth, economy, and national development.
The announcement comes amid ongoing efforts by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) and other stakeholders to pass the Higher National Diploma Discrimination (Prohibition) Bill.
