FG to End HND Dichotomy, Grant Polytechnics Degree-Awarding Powers

The federal government has unveiled plans to abolish the Higher National Diploma (HND) distinction by granting polytechnics the authority to award degrees, a reform aimed at strengthening technical and vocational education as a driver of national development.

The announcement was made by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, during a high-level retreat in Abuja attended by council chairmen, commissioners of education, rectors, registrars, and bursars.

Dr. Alausa described the policy as a transformative step that will end decades of disparity between university and polytechnic graduates, positioning polytechnics as centres of excellence within Nigeria’s higher education system. He emphasised that the reform will maintain the sector’s practical, industry-focused approach while elevating its academic standing.

“The competitiveness of Nigeria’s economy depends on a workforce capable of creating, building, and solving real-world problems,” the minister said. He noted that the initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises job creation, industrial growth, and human capital development.

Degree-awarding status is expected to attract stronger industry partnerships, enhanced funding opportunities, and increased public confidence in polytechnics. Dr. Alausa assured stakeholders that the transition will be supported by clear standards, strict regulation, and quality assurance to meet global benchmarks.

Speaking on the theme, *“Transforming Polytechnic Education in Nigeria: Innovation, Good Governance and Sustainability for National Development,”* the minister stressed the importance of technical and vocational education in building a skills-driven economy. He encouraged polytechnic leaders to foster innovation through entrepreneurship centres, research hubs, and industry collaborations, highlighting renewable energy, agri-technology, digital manufacturing, and climate-resilient solutions as key focus areas.

Dr. Alausa also underscored the need for transparent and accountable governance, calling for fiscal discipline, timely audits, and prudent resource management. He urged institutions to pursue sustainability by increasing internally generated revenue, developing eco-friendly campuses, and producing essential goods locally to reduce reliance on imports.

Acknowledging challenges such as funding gaps, outdated facilities, and societal preference for university degrees, the minister said the opportunities for growth and impact outweigh these obstacles. He announced a special TETFund intervention this year to equip polytechnic engineering schools with modern facilities, following a similar upgrade for 12 medical colleges last year.

The minister concluded by urging participants to become agents of change in their institutions, noting that the nation’s economic and social future depends on the transformation of polytechnic education.

Education experts at the retreat described the announcement as a turning point that will boost enrolment, motivate staff and students, and strengthen polytechnics’ contributions to manufacturing, technology, agriculture, and renewable energy sectors.