HND Holders Can Now Teach in Polytechnics: New NBTE Scheme
The National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) has announced that Higher National Diploma (HND) holders can now be employed as lecturers in polytechnics. This new scheme, effective from 7th June 2024, abolishes the Instructor cadre and unifies recruitment and promotion standards across all Nigerian polytechnics. This milestone, achieved after over a decade of efforts, allows HND holders to be appointed as Graduate Assistants, similar to degree holders. This change enhances opportunities for polytechnic graduates and improves the overall education system.
The National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) has introduced a significant change that benefits Higher National Diploma (HND) holders. As of June 7, 2024, HND holders can now be employed as lecturers in polytechnics across Nigeria. This announcement was made by the NBTE Executive Secretary, Prof. Idris Mohammed Bugaje, during the formal presentation of the new Schemes of Service.
Introduction of the New Schemes of Service
The new Schemes of Service, approved by Dr. Mrs. Folasade Yemi-Esan, Head of Service, aim to unify the recruitment and promotion processes across Nigerian polytechnics, including federal, state, and private institutions. These changes mark the end of the segregation against HND holders in the academic workforce.
Key Changes and Benefits
- Unified Recruitment: The new schemes present a consistent approach to hiring and promoting staff, ensuring fairness and equality.
- HND Holders as Lecturers: HND holders with good grades can now be appointed as Graduate Assistants, similar to their degree-holding counterparts.
- Abolition of Instructor Cadre: The instructor position, which previously segregated HND holders, has been removed.
- Technician to Technologist Transition: ND holders can now be appointed as Assistant Technologists, with the technician cadre being integrated into the technologist cadre.
- Pharmacy Technology Cadre: HND holders in Pharmacy Technology retain their roles in public service despite restrictions from the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria.
Additional Provisions
- Registry Cadre: The terminal level for the Registry Cadre is now Deputy Registrar (CONTEDISS 15), with the Registrar position being tenured on a consolidated salary.
- NSQ Level 3 Requirement: Senior Lecturers and above must have a minimum of NSQ Level 3 to institutionalize skills training. Current lecturers have a three-year moratorium to meet this requirement.
- Promotion Criteria: Skipping has been abolished, but discussions with the Head of Service are ongoing to align this with other public service cadres.
Implementation and Compliance
The NBTE will use the new Schemes of Service as an accreditation tool for both old and new institutions. This ensures that polytechnics comply with the updated standards, promoting a unified and fair system.
Appreciation and Support
Prof. Bugaje expressed gratitude to the Head of Service, Dr. Mrs. Folasade Yemi-Esan, for her support and efforts in making these changes possible. He also thanked the Ministers of Education, the Permanent Secretary, and the staff unions for their solidarity and steadfastness.
Conclusion
The introduction of the new Schemes of Service by the NBTE is a significant step forward for HND holders and the polytechnic system in Nigeria. This change not only opens up new opportunities for HND graduates but also ensures a fair and unified approach to staff recruitment and promotion in polytechnics. For further details, visit the NBTE website or contact the respective polytechnic administration offices.
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