FG to allow Polytechnics award degrees

The Federal Government has announced plans to end the long-standing distinction between Higher National Diploma (HND) and university degrees by granting polytechnics the authority to award degrees

The initiative, aimed at strengthening technical and vocational education, was unveiled by Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, on Wednesday during a high-level retreat in Abuja. The event brought together Governing Council chairmen, commissioners of education, rectors, registrars, and bursars.

Describing the move as historic, Dr. Alausa said it would end years of discrimination against polytechnic graduates and reposition polytechnics as centres of excellence within Nigeria’s higher education system. He emphasised that the reform will preserve the practical, industry-focused nature of polytechnic education while enhancing its role in producing a workforce capable of tackling real-world challenges and boosting national competitiveness.

The minister explained that the policy aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises job creation, industrial expansion, and human capital development. With the ability to award degrees, polytechnics are expected to attract greater industry collaboration, secure better funding, and earn increased public confidence.

Dr. Alausa assured stakeholders that the transition would be guided by clear standards, strong regulation, and robust quality assurance mechanisms to ensure international competitiveness.

Speaking under the theme, “Transforming Polytechnic Education in Nigeria: Innovation, Good Governance and Sustainability for National Development,” the minister highlighted polytechnics’ vital role in building a skills-based economy. He noted that Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) has been prioritised to produce graduates who are innovative, industry-ready, and capable of driving economic growth.

He urged polytechnic administrators to promote innovation through entrepreneurship hubs, research centres, and strong industry partnerships, pointing to renewable energy, agri-technology, digital manufacturing, and climate-resilient solutions as key focus areas for development.

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