FG to End Dichotomy, Approve Polytechnics Award of Degrees 

FG to End Dichotomy, Approve Polytechnics Award of Degrees

The Nigerian Federal Government has announced a landmark policy to end the long-standing HND-degree dichotomy.

Under this reform, polytechnics will be empowered to award degrees, repositioning technical education as a primary driver of national development.

Minister of Education Dr. Tunji Alausa disclosed the plan during a high-level retreat in Abuja. He stated the move would eliminate labor market discrimination against polytechnic graduates and elevate these institutions into recognized centers of excellence.

Aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda,” the policy focuses on industrial growth and job creation. The government aims to attract stronger industry partnerships and boost public confidence while maintaining the polytechnics’ focus on practical training.

To ensure global competitiveness, the transition will be guided by strict regulations and quality assurance mechanisms. The Ministry will prioritize vocational training (TVET) to ensure graduates possess the hands-on skills necessary to drive a skills-based economy.

Finally, the Minister demanded transparency and fiscal discipline from polytechnic administrators to support this new era. He urged institutions to increase internally generated revenue and focus on sustainability to help reduce the nation’s dependence on imports.