The Chairmen of Governing Councils (CGC) of Nigerian Polytechnics have called for the conversion of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) into a commission to better address the evolving needs of polytechnics in the country.
This recommendation was made in a communique issued at the end of their meeting held in Calabar, Cross River State, from February 9 to 14, 2025.
Dr. Y. M. Bande, Secretary of the Chairmen of Federal Polytechnics, emphasized the importance of enhancing technical education and skills development to prepare Nigerian youths for the future.
He noted that skills development remains a critical driver of global progress, and Nigeria must not be left behind.
Key Recommendations from the Meeting:
1. Establishment of a Polytechnic Commission
The Chairmen highlighted that while other tertiary institutions in Nigeria have dedicated commissions, polytechnics are still under the NBTE, which oversees 787 institutions, including federal, state, and private polytechnics, monotechnics, vocational and entrepreneurial institutions, and technical colleges. They stressed the need for a dedicated commission to effectively manage and promote skill-based education.
2. HND to B.Tech (Hons) Upgrade
The council recommended upgrading the Higher National Diploma (HND) to a Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) degree. Entry requirements should include O’ Level results, a National Diploma (ND), and an Industrial Training (IT) certificate.
3. Employment of Outsourced Staff
They urged the federal government to absorb outsourced cleaning and security staff in polytechnics, as is done in other tertiary institutions.
4. Improved Power Supply
The committee proposed that the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) should provide solar power to polytechnics to enhance learning conditions.
5. Creation of a Skills Development Fund
They called for the establishment of a Skills Development Fund to support training and innovation in technical education.
6. Security and Land Protection
To prevent encroachment and ensure the safety of students and staff, the Chairmen recommended fencing all polytechnics.
7. Feasibility Studies for New Polytechnics
The council advised that proper feasibility studies be conducted before establishing new polytechnics to prevent misallocation of resources.
8. Curriculum Review and Special Funding
They emphasized the need for targeted funding to upgrade outdated curricula and align polytechnic education with modern technological advancements.
9. TETFund Intervention for 2025
The Chairmen expressed concern over government restrictions that prevent polytechnics with less than 1,000 students from accessing 2025 Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) interventions, arguing that this could hinder the growth of newer institutions.
10. ₦100 Billion Agricultural Technology Intervention
Polytechnics offering agricultural technology and related courses with adequate farmland should be prioritized for a proposed ₦100 billion intervention in agricultural production.
The Chairmen extended their gratitude to the government and people of Cross River State, as well as the host polytechnic in Ugep, for their hospitality. They also appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Minister of Education Dr. Tunji Alausa for entrusting them with the responsibility of overseeing the country’s polytechnic education system.
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