•Dr. Tunji Alausa
Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, has hinted of plans to remove existing dichotomy in Higher National Diploma (HND) by allowing polytechnics to award degrees.
He gave the hint while speaking at a high-level retreat held in Abuja yesterday, for education stakeholders across the country, reports Daily Independent.
According to the minister, the policy is aimed at putting a stop to years of discrimination allegedly faced by polytechnic graduates and to reposition technical education for national growth.
He noted that polytechnics will retain their strong practical training focus while gaining wider academic recognition.
He said the reform aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which focuses on job creation, industrial expansion and human capital development.
Alausa also stated that a skilled workforce is essential for Nigeria to remain competitive in today’s global economy.
The minister told participants that clear standards, strict regulation and strong quality assurance measures will guide the transition process to meet global standards.
Commenting on the theme, ‘Transforming Polytechnic Education in Nigeria: Innovation, Good Governance and Sustainability for National Development’, Alausa noted that polytechnics play a vital role in building a skills-based economy.
He urged institutions to strengthen entrepreneurship centres, research hubs and industry partnerships, especially in areas such as renewable energy, agriculture technology, digital manufacturing and climate solutions.
He also cautioned that transparency, accountability and ethical leadership must define the new phase of polytechnic administration.
On sustainability, he encouraged schools to boost internally generated revenue, develop eco-friendly campuses and reduce reliance on imports by producing what they consume. Despite challenges such as limited funding, outdated facilities and societal preference for university degrees, he said greater opportunities lie ahead.
He disclosed that a special TETFund intervention has been approved this year to upgrade polytechnic engineering schools with modern equipment.
Charging participants to return as agents of change, the minister said, “The future of our youth, our economy and our nation depends on the transformation we ignite here today.”
