FG TO ELIMINATE HND DISTINCTION, EMPOWER POLYTECHNICS TO GRANT DEGREES
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HOTJIST MEDIA
In a significant move to recast technical and vocational education as a catalyst for national growth, the federal government has announced plans to eliminate the long-standing Higher National Diploma (HND) distinction by enabling polytechnics to issue degrees.
The Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, disclosed this in Abuja on Wednesday while addressing a high-level retreat of council chairmen, commissioners of education, 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 centers of excellence within Nigeria’s higher education system. He said that the reform would strengthen polytechnic education while maintaining its fundamental strength in practical, industry-focused training. Advertisements by He pointed out that a workforce capable of creating, building, and resolving real-world issues is essential to Nigeria’s future competitiveness.
The minister clarified that the strategy is in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which places 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 reassured stakeholders that the shift will be governed by precise standards, stringent regulations, and quality assurance procedures.
Speaking on the theme “Transforming Polytechnic Education in Nigeria: Innovation, Good Governance and Sustainability for National Development”, the minister said polytechnics are critical to building a skills-driven economy.
He emphasized that the Ministry has given Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) top priority in order to guarantee that graduates are inventive, prepared for the workforce, and able to propel economic progress.
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. He 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 consume and support national needs by reducing dependence on imports.
Dr. Alausa acknowledged that there are obstacles including inadequate funding, antiquated facilities, and societal prejudice in favor of college degrees, but she also stated that there are many more prospects in the future. He reiterated the federal government’s dedication to assisting polytechnics through collaborations, infrastructural improvements, and regulatory changes. After a similar intervention for 12 medical colleges last year, he also announced a special TETFund intervention this year to renovate polytechnic engineering schools with cutting-edge equipment.
“The future of our youth, our economy, and our nation depends on the transformation we ignite here today,” the minister declared, urging attendees to return to their institutions as change agents. The news, according to education experts at the retreat, would increase enrollment, inspire students and staff, and expand polytechnics’ contribution to important industries including manufacturing, technology, agriculture, and renewable energy.
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