In a significant change intended to reposition technical and vocational education as a catalyst for national growth, the federal government has revealed intentions to eliminate the long-standing Higher National Diploma, or HND, contradiction by enabling polytechnics to issue degrees.
This was revealed yesterday in Abuja by Education Minister Dr. Tunji Alausa during a high-level retreat of council chairmen, education commissioners, rectors, registrars, and bursars.
The minister described the action as a historic change in policy that would put an end to decades of prejudice against polytechnic graduates and transform polytechnics into centres of excellence within Nigeria’s higher education system.
He claims that the revision will strengthen polytechnic education while maintaining its fundamental strength of practical, industry-focused training.
He pointed out that a workforce capable of creating, constructing, and resolving real-world issues was essential to Nigeria’s future competitiveness.
The minister clarified that the policy was in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which placed a high priority on the development of human capital, industrial expansion, and job creation.
Polytechnics are anticipated to gain more public trust, better funding prospects, and stronger industry relationships as a result of their degree-awarding status.
In order to maintain global competitiveness, Dr. Alausa gave stakeholders the assurance that the shift will be governed by precise standards, stringent regulations, and quality assurance procedures.
The minister stated that polytechnics were essential to creating a skills-driven economy while speaking on the topic of “Transforming Polytechnic Education in Nigeria: Innovation, Good Governance and Sustainability for National Development.”
He said the ministry had prioritised Technical and Vocational Education and Training ,TVET, to ensure graduates were industry-ready, innovative and capable of driving economic growth.
He urged polytechnic leaders to entrench innovation through entrepreneurship centres, research hubs and robust industry partnerships, identifying renewable energy, agri-technology, digital manufacturing and climate-resilient solutions as priority areas.
On governance, Dr. Alausa warned that transparency, accountability and ethical leadership must define the new era in polytechnic administration, and called for fiscal discipline, timely audits, prudent resource management and zero tolerance for corruption.
The minister also emphasised sustainability, encouraging institutions to increase internally generated revenue through production and services, develop eco-friendly campuses and build resilient infrastructure.
Polytechnics, he said, should aim to produce what they consumed and support national needs by reducing dependence on imports.
While acknowledging challenges such as funding gaps, outdated facilities and societal bias in favour of university degrees, Dr. Alausa said the opportunities ahead were far greater.
