NBTE Introduces Online Programs for HND to BSc Conversion in One Year

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The National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) has launched an innovative online program aimed at allowing Higher National Diploma (HND) holders to elevate their qualifications to a Bachelor’s Degree through a one-year online top-up program, conducted in collaboration with internationally accredited universities.

NBTE Introduces Online Programs for HND to BSc Conversion in One Year

This development was revealed in a press release shared with the media on Monday, originating from NBTE's Head of Media Unit, Mrs. Fatima Abubakar, based in Abuja.

The initiative also aims to streamline the progression of HND holders towards higher educational degrees.

"Efforts made previously to secure approval from the National Universities Commission (NUC) for a two-year Master of Technology program for HND holders within certain polytechnics unfortunately didn't come to fruition," Mrs. Abubakar stated.

"Historically, HND holders have been required to undergo a one-year Postgraduate Diploma before they could gain admission into Master’s Programs at universities. However, this route poses a disadvantage, as those who continue on to pursue a PhD and intend to transition to a Nigerian University, are consistently questioned to produce their initial degree, even after earning doctorates."

"To address this unwarranted bias, NBTE has designed a pathway for HND holders to achieve their educational aspirations. Interested individuals can access the program via https://topup.nbte.gov.ng," she explained.

Mrs. Abubakar also emphasized another challenge that many polytechnic HND graduates face – the issue of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) mobilization.

According to her, a considerable number of students are admitted into non-accredited programs. After obtaining their HND, these graduates often face exclusion from the NYSC mobilization process.

"In order to tackle this problem, NBTE has introduced an HND admission portal that will be utilized by all polytechnics. The portal will solely display accredited programs, and NYSC will have access to view the list of admitted candidates for mobilization."

"This approach aims to put an end to the illegal admission of HND students into unaccredited programs, while simultaneously ensuring that educational institutions adhere to prescribed capacities for quality control," Mrs. Abubakar said.

In conclusion, she appealed for the approval of a bill, already passed by the preceding National Assembly, which seeks to eliminate the HND-BSc dichotomy in the public service. This move, she believes, will put an end to unjust and unwarranted discrimination against polytechnic graduates.

Mrs. Abubakar further highlighted that the absence of legal support has prompted the board to devise methods of elevating the status of HND holders, due to their pivotal role in driving Nigeria's industrialization and the development of essential infrastructure.