FG to end HND dichotomy has announced a landmark reform empowering polytechnics to award degrees, a move aimed at elevating technical education and ending decades of discrimination against HND holders. The policy was unveiled by Education Minister Dr. Tunji Alausa yesterday in Abuja during a high-level retreat of education leaders and polytechnic administrators.
Dr. Alausa described the reform as critical to repositioning polytechnics as centres of excellence within Nigeria’s higher education system. He said the policy aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises industrial growth, job creation, and human capital development. Degree-awarding status, he explained, will attract stronger industry partnerships, increased funding, and higher public confidence in polytechnic education.
The minister emphasised that polytechnics will maintain their hands-on, industry-focused training while expanding to deliver globally competitive degrees. He highlighted the importance of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in preparing graduates for real-world challenges, with focus areas including renewable energy, agri-technology, digital manufacturing, and climate-resilient solutions.
Dr. Alausa called for ethical leadership, transparency, and fiscal discipline in polytechnic administration. He encouraged institutions to boost internally generated revenue, adopt eco-friendly practices, and build resilient infrastructure, ensuring sustainability while reducing dependence on imports.
The federal government has also pledged targeted support, including TETFund interventions to upgrade polytechnic engineering schools with modern equipment, following similar upgrades for medical colleges last year. Education experts described the reform as a turning point likely to increase enrolment, motivate staff and students, and strengthen polytechnics’ contributions to key sectors such as manufacturing, technology, agriculture, and renewable energy.
“The future of our youth, our economy, and our nation depends on the transformation we ignite here today,” Dr. Alausa told participants, urging them to champion innovation, research, and entrepreneurship in their institutions.
