NBTE replies ASUP, explains rationale for outsourcing polytechnics’ accreditation

The National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) has responded to the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) over its criticism of the Board’s decision to outsource the physical accreditation of institutions under its supervision.

Acknowledging ASUP’s concerns about maintaining educational standards, the NBTE explained that it is currently overwhelmed by the sheer number of institutions it oversees—over 800—while having fewer than 100 Programme Officers to conduct accreditation.

In a statement on Sunday, the NBTE, led by Professor Idris Bugaje, and signed by its Head of Media Unit, Fatima Abubakar, clarified that the outsourcing initiative only applies to physical accreditation exercises and is a temporary measure.

The goal, according to the Board, is to help institutions with poor ICT infrastructure upgrade so they can transition to the digital accreditation platform in the future.

According to the statement, “The National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) acknowledges the concerns raised by the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) regarding the proposed outsourcing of quality assurance activities.

“We appreciate ASUP’s commitment to maintaining high standards in regulating Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in Nigeria.

“However, it is important to clarify that the proposed framework is aimed at addressing the growing challenge of regulating an increasing number of institutions (over 800 and counting) under NBTE’s jurisdiction with less than 100 program officers (staff of the NBTE).

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“The outsourcing initiative approved by the Hon Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, is only for physical accreditation exercises over a period of time to enable those institutions with poor ICT infrastructure to upgrade and come on board the digital platform.

“This initiative only seeks to enhance efficiency, leverage external expertise, align with global best practices, and ensure timely accreditation and reaccreditation processes.

“The outsourcing model shall be for Institutions that cannot log into our existing digital platform and is structured to maintain transparency, avoid conflicts of interest, and uphold the integrity of the accreditation process.

“Furthermore, let it be made clear that the digital platform remains the mainstay for accreditation and quality assurance processes in the NBTE and is fully under the control of the Board.

“The Board remains open to constructive dialogue with stakeholders, including ASUP, to refine implementation strategies that align with the best interests of polytechnic education in Nigeria. It should be noted that just early this week, we had a stakeholders’ dialogue on this new initiative with Rectors and union leaders.

“We look forward to continued engagement with ASUP, other staff unions, and all key stakeholders to strengthen the regulatory framework of TVET institutions and ensure sustainable quality assurance mechanisms,” the statement read.