FG to Abolish HND Dichotomy, Empower Polytechnics to Award Degrees in Major Education Reform

The Federal Government has unveiled plans to end the long-standing Higher National Diploma disparity by granting polytechnics the authority to award academic degrees, marking a significant reform designed to reposition technical and vocational education as a catalyst for national development.

The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, announced the policy direction in Abuja while addressing a high-level retreat attended by governing council chairmen, commissioners of education, rectors, registrars, and bursars from across the country.

He described the initiative as a transformative shift that will eliminate years of discrimination faced by polytechnic graduates and elevate polytechnics to a more prominent status within Nigeria’s higher education system. According to him, the reform will strengthen the foundation of polytechnic education without compromising its established emphasis on practical, industry-driven training.

Alausa stressed that Nigeria’s global competitiveness depends largely on developing a workforce capable of innovation, production, and problem-solving. He noted that the new policy is in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, which prioritizes job creation, industrial expansion, and human capital development.

With the proposed degree-awarding status, polytechnics are expected to attract stronger partnerships with industries, enjoy improved funding prospects, and gain increased public confidence. The minister assured stakeholders that the transition would be implemented under strict regulatory standards and quality assurance frameworks to ensure credibility and international recognition.

Speaking on the theme of transforming polytechnic education through innovation, good governance, and sustainability, Alausa emphasized the central role of Technical and Vocational Education and Training in building a skills-based economy. He explained that the ministry is focusing on producing graduates who are industry-ready and capable of contributing meaningfully to economic growth.

On institutional governance, the minister called for transparency, accountability, and ethical leadership across polytechnics. He urged administrators to uphold fiscal discipline, conduct timely audits, manage resources prudently, and maintain zero tolerance for corruption.

He also highlighted the need for sustainability, encouraging institutions to boost internally generated revenue through productive ventures and service delivery, adopt environmentally friendly practices, and invest in resilient infrastructure. According to him, polytechnics should be positioned to support national needs by producing goods and services that reduce dependence on imports.

While acknowledging existing challenges such as inadequate funding, obsolete facilities, and societal preference for university degrees, Alausa expressed confidence that the reforms present far greater opportunities for growth and transformation.

He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to supporting polytechnics through strategic policy reforms, infrastructure improvements, and collaborative partnerships aimed at strengthening the sector for long-term national development.