Polytechnic Education Reform: Alumni Urge FG to Phase Out HND and Award Degrees

The Federal Polytechnic Ado-Ekiti Alumni Association has called on the Federal Government to upgrade all polytechnics into degree-awarding institutions, bridging the longstanding gap between Higher National Diploma (HND) and Bachelor of Science (B.Sc) qualifications.

Dr. Oyedokun Abiodun, National President of the association, made the appeal during the second Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Federal Polytechnic Ado-Ekiti Alumni Association (FEDPAA), which was held virtually. The meeting’s theme was “Polytechnic Education and Alumni Engagement: Catalysts for Human Capital Development and a Resilient Economy.”

Dr. Abiodun emphasized that elevating polytechnics to degree-awarding status and eliminating the B.Sc/HND disparity would mark a historic milestone in Nigeria’s technological education. He urged the government to approve the transition of all polytechnics to Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) awarding institutions while retaining the name “polytechnic.” He also recommended phasing out the HND programme and making the National Diploma the minimum qualification for seamless entry into B.Tech programmes.

Highlighting the alumni association’s contributions, Dr. Abiodun noted initiatives such as the construction of hostels and other institutional support. “Our commitment to our alma mater is evident through tangible projects and support. Our conduct and achievements are our strongest tools for advocacy,” he stated.

Guest speaker Dr. Simbo Popoola described polytechnic education as a key driver of national industrialization, providing job-ready skills for sectors including engineering, ICT, agriculture, and manufacturing, while supporting MSME growth and entrepreneurship. He encouraged alumni to continuously improve, take leadership roles, and set excellence as their benchmark.

The Rector of the institution, Dr. Temitope Alake, stressed the importance of alumni in sustaining polytechnic education. “Through our collective efforts, we not only strengthen the institution but contribute to national development,” he said, commending the association’s leadership for its impact on institutional growth.

Dr. Oluwatoyin Alabi, Chairman of the FEDPAA Board of Trustees, described the AGM as a reaffirmation of alumni commitment to the growth and relevance of the polytechnic. “As custodians of a proud legacy, it is our responsibility to ensure the Federal Polytechnic Ado-Ekiti produces graduates capable of competing and excelling globally,” he noted.

The Registrar, Mrs. Folasade Akintola, highlighted the positive influence of alumni through mentorship, advocacy, and strategic partnerships. Moses Bominuru, Vice President and Chairman of the National Organizing Committee, added that the AGM theme showcased how polytechnic education combined with active alumni engagement can drive national development.

Former Rector Dr. Theresa Akande underlined the alumni association’s role in sustaining institutions and boosting national economic growth, calling for members to act with decorum and unity. Similarly, Dr. Taofik Abdul-Hameed, Rector of Federal Polytechnic, Ayede, Ogbomoso, advocated for phasing out HND programmes, citing international best practices where polytechnics award B.Tech degrees. He praised the National Assembly’s efforts toward achieving parity between HND and B.Sc holders, noting that the relevant bill is awaiting presidential assent.

The meeting concluded with a call for alumni to continue supporting their institutions, fostering excellence, and contributing to the nation’s technological and economic advancement.