The Federal Government has announced plans to phase out the Higher National Diploma (HND) and grant polytechnics the authority to award bachelor’s degrees, a move aimed at ending decades of disparity between polytechnic and university graduates.
Newsonspot reports that the announcement was made by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, during an education stakeholders’ retreat in Abuja attended by commissioners, polytechnic rectors, and sector leaders. According to the minister, the reform will position polytechnics as centres of both academic excellence and hands-on, industry-driven training.
Dr. Alausa explained that while polytechnics will retain their practical, skills-focused approach, the new degree-awarding status will better prepare graduates to meet real-world industry needs and drive economic growth. The initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises job creation, industrial expansion, and human capital development.
He added that polytechnics with degree-awarding powers are expected to attract stronger industry partnerships, increased funding, and greater public confidence. The transition, he assured, will follow strict regulations and quality benchmarks to ensure Nigerian polytechnic degrees meet international standards.
The minister highlighted Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) as critical to building a skills-based economy and urged institutions to invest in entrepreneurship centres, research hubs, and industry collaborations. Key focus areas include renewable energy, agri-technology, digital manufacturing, and climate-smart solutions.
On governance, Dr. Alausa stressed transparency, accountability, and ethical leadership, warning against corruption. He also encouraged polytechnics to develop eco-friendly campuses, boost internal revenue, and reduce import dependence through local production.
Acknowledging challenges such as funding gaps, outdated infrastructure, and societal bias towards university education, the minister noted that opportunities for growth far outweigh the obstacles. He confirmed continued government support through policy reforms, infrastructure upgrades, partnerships, and a special TETFund initiative to modernise polytechnic engineering schools.
