The National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) has launched two cutting-edge online platforms with the goal of improving Higher National Diploma (HND) holders’ academic prospects and expediting their path to further degrees.
The first portal works with foreign approved colleges to facilitate a one-year online “Top-Up” program.
The organization stated that this project will make it possible for those with HNDs to work toward acquiring Bachelor’s degrees, assisting them in overcoming the ongoing problem of progress for such people.
The board noted that efforts to develop a two-year Master of Technology degree for HND holders in the past ran into problems because it has been difficult to get recognition for them over time.
It said:
“HND holders often had to undertake a one-year Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) before gaining admission to Master’s programs in universities. Unfortunately, the PGD route led to ongoing issues, as even those holding doctorate degrees were required to produce their original first-degree certificates.
“To tackle these issues head-on, NBTE has launched the Top-Up program portal accessible at https://topup.nbte.gov.ng.”
Additionally, they stated that new method intends to remove pointless obstacles that HND holders have previously encountered in addition to facilitating smooth progression.
The second portal addresses mobilization of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), a prominent concern among Polytechnic HND graduates.
According to NBTE, many graduates are admitted into non-accredited institutions, which prevents them from taking part in the NYSC.
The organization has established an HND admission site that will be used by all polytechnics in order to address this.
The platform would only list accredited programs, guaranteeing admissions openness and accountability and giving NYSC access to crucial data for mobilization.
By adopting these platforms, NBTE hopes to improve the educational track for HND holders and make it more efficient and equitable, supporting their academic and professional development.
These programs not only help people become more independent but also raise the polytechnic system’s profile in Nigeria’s educational system.
The board also urged the president to support the legislation that would do away with the HND/BSc distinction in the public sector.