NBTE Clarifies ND Part-Time/HND Full-Time NYSC Mobilization of Polytechnic Graduates

The National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) has addressed the circulating rumors on social media suggesting that Higher National Diploma (HND) graduates with a National Diploma (ND) part-time background are no longer eligible for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program.

In a letter dated January 8, 2025, and addressed to the NYSC Director-General, Professor Shuaibu Ibrahim, the NBTE Executive Secretary, Professor Idris Bugaje, stated that using ND admission status as a criterion for NYSC mobilization is inappropriate. He clarified that the requirement for NYSC mobilization is based on completing the HND program, not the ND.

Professor Bugaje emphasized his willingness to visit the NYSC headquarters to explain the issue and ensure the mobilization of all full-time HND graduates.

He stated:
“The basis for NYSC mobilization is the HND, not the ND. Therefore, the use of JAMB data on ND admission for NYSC mobilization is not appropriate.”

The NBTE further affirmed:
“All full-time HND graduates are recommended for mobilization, irrespective of whether their ND program was full-time or part-time. The NBTE, as the regulatory body, has approved the admission of part-time ND holders into full-time HND programs.”

Professor Bugaje also mentioned that the House Committee on Polytechnics and other stakeholders have called for a swift resolution to this matter. He noted, “I am meeting with the committee today to ensure an early resolution.”

The NBTE appealed to the NYSC to approve the mobilization of all full-time HND graduates from accredited programs.

“Kindly approve the mobilization of all full-time HND graduates from programs accredited by the NBTE. Exclusion is not a fair measure against any full-time graduate. This will prevent potential litigation from the National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS), who are currently protesting across campuses.”

As of the time of this report, the NYSC is yet to respond to the issue. POLYTV is monitoring the situation closely and will provide updates on the final resolution.

For now, the NBTE has clarified that all full-time HND graduates are eligible for NYSC mobilization and has urged the NYSC to consider this request. Stakeholders hope that this intervention will yield a positive outcome.

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