Stakeholders in polytechnic education are calling for an end to the disparity between Bachelor’s Degree and Higher National Diploma (HND) holders, urging the government to implement policies that promote parity and inclusivity.
The Rector of Yabatech, Dr. Ibraheem Abdul, emphasized the need for the Federal Government to implement its policy on Bachelor’s Degree/HND parity.
“This should be reflected in recruitment, promotions, and career progression,” he said.
Abdul also suggested upgrading well-established polytechnics to degree-awarding institutions or converting them to universities of technology with a focus on practical skills.
*Bridging the Gap*
Abdul noted that while Post Graduate Diploma (PGD) has bridged the gap to some extent, Bachelor’s Degree is still given preference in many cases.
“Absence of a Bachelor’s Degree could still haunt a diploma graduate,” he said, recommending that HND graduates pursue conversion programs with relevant professional qualifications and certifications.
*ASUP’s stand*
The Chairman of the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP), Yaba College of Technology Chapter, Mr. Ojo Monday, stated that the dichotomy has hindered the growth of polytechnic education in Nigeria.
Monday advocated for the conversion of polytechnics to universities or adopting the model of polytechnic universities with a focus on hands-on skills and vocational training.
*HND graduate’s lamentation*
A polytechnic graduate, Silvia, shared her experience, saying, “We need a government policy to drive a change of perception… HND holders have faced challenges in the job market, often feeling marginalized.”
She emphasized that eliminating the disparity would boost the confidence of HND graduates and enable Nigeria to tap into the vast potential of polytechnic education.
Although the bill prohibiting discrimination between HND and Bachelor’s Degree was passed by the Senate and House of Representatives in 2021, it has yet to be signed into law. Until then, HND holders in the civil service face limitations in career advancement, unable to be promoted beyond level 14 regardless of their competence and commitment.
