Nigeria’s National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) has criticized the persistent disparity between Higher National Diploma (HND) and Bachelor of Science (BSc) qualifications in the country. According to Prof. Idris Bugaje, the Executive Secretary of NBTE, this dichotomy is a “sign of underdevelopment” that has hindered progress in eliminating discriminatory practices against HND holders.
In an interview, Bugaje lamented that despite numerous efforts to bridge the gap, progress has been slow and frustrating. He noted that in developed countries, HND holders are not discriminated against and are allowed to reach the highest levels in their careers. In Nigeria, however, HND graduates have been restricted to certain roles, while university graduates have had more opportunities for advancement.
To address this issue, the NBTE has introduced a policy allowing HND holders to be employed as Assistant Lecturers in polytechnics. Historically, HND graduates were limited to roles as technologists, while university graduates were employed as lecturers and rose through the ranks to become chief lecturers and rectors. Bugaje described this as “unfortunate and unjustified,” but noted that the new policy has helped to break down the barrier and correct the anomaly.
The anti-dichotomy bill, which aimed to eliminate the disparity between HND and BSc qualifications, had reached the presidency before the end of former President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration but was not signed into law. In response, stakeholders have proposed the introduction of a Bachelor of Technology, Honours (B.Tech Hons) Degree in polytechnics. This degree would differ from the university-awarded BSc, focusing on “character, learning, and skills” rather than just character and learning.
A bill to amend the Polytechnic Act has already passed its first reading in the National Assembly, with a public hearing expected soon. Bugaje expressed optimism that the bill would be signed into law by the President before the end of the year. He drew comparisons with South Africa, where polytechnics offer multiple academic pathways, including ND, HND, B.Tech, and doctoral degrees. Bugaje believes that Nigeria should emulate this model, pointing out that some polytechnics in the country already have more doctorate holders than some universities.
The introduction of the B.Tech Hons Degree in polytechnics is seen as a significant step towards addressing the dichotomy between HND and BSc qualifications. By providing a clear pathway for HND holders to advance in their careers, the NBTE hopes to promote equality and excellence in the education sector. As Bugaje noted, “Some of our polytechnics already have more doctorate holders than some universities. So why should we refuse them that opportunity?” The success of this proposal depends on public support, and Bugaje has called on the public to back the reforms and help bring them to fruition.
