House of Reps pushes for eradication of degree, HND employment dichotomy in Nigeria – Crime Channels
House of Reps pushes for eradication of degree, HND employment dichotomy in Nigeria
During a recent budget performance session with the Rectors of Federal Polytechnic Shendam and Federal Polytechnic Wannune, members of the House of Representatives highlighted the pressing need to address the long-standing inequality between Degree and Higher National Diploma (HND) qualifications in the job market.
Hon. Fuad Laguda, Chairman of the House Committee on Federal Polytechnics and Higher Technical Education, led the discussion, urging for reforms that would eliminate the disparities that have historically impacted graduates’ employment opportunities. The committee’s focus is on fostering a more equitable job market that recognizes the value of all qualifications equally.
Laguda revealed that several proposed bills are in the works to address the challenges facing polytechnics in Nigeria, aiming to strengthen these institutions and enhance their role in developing the nation’s technical expertise.
“The purpose of this meeting is to assess your budget performance and understand the challenges you face, so we can provide the necessary support for your institutions to function effectively,” Laguda stated.
He stressed the importance of evaluating past and current budget performances as they prepare for the upcoming 2025 budget year.
Dr. Mikaila Zakari Yau, Rector of Federal Polytechnic Nyam-Shendam, highlighted the struggles his institution has faced since its inception in 2021. Operating out of a primary school building without a proper site, he noted, “We started in a temporary location donated by the state government.”
Dr. Ya’u reported that they received a N2 billion take-off grant from TetFund, part of which was used to purchase a water tanker due to a lack of water on campus, as well as to renovate existing facilities. He mentioned, however, that there was no initial take-off grant from the Federal Ministry of Education, although consistent budget releases have allowed the institution to carry out essential capital projects.
The committee expressed concern over the low enrollment figures, noting that the school has only 27 students despite a staff capacity of 245. One member questioned, “We need to know how the N2 billion was spent and who benefited from it, especially given the alarming number of students enrolled.”
Dr. Tyover Ashinya, Rector of Federal Polytechnic Wannune, also spoke about the establishment of his institution in 2021.
He apologized for previous miscommunications and reassured the committee that they have effectively utilized their take-off grant for essential infrastructure, noting that they currently have nearly 1,000 students enrolled.
In closing, Hon. Laguda instructed the representatives from both institutions to submit their position papers within five working days.
He urged them to accurately represent their situations, suggesting that if their reports were found to be inaccurate, they should resubmit comprehensive updates to address the committee’s concerns.
