Rector Calls For Scrap Of HND Programme In Polytechnics, Advocates Skill-Based Degrees

The Rector of the Federal Polytechnic Ayede, Dr. Taofeek Adekunle Abdul-Hameed, has called for the scrapping of the Higher National Diploma (HND) programme in Nigerian polytechnics, advocating instead for a full transition to skill-based Bachelor’s degrees.

“It’s time Nigeria cancelled the HND programme from polytechnics,” the rector declared in an exclusive chat with The Punch, highlighting the global shift from paper qualifications to practical, hands-on skill acquisition as the driver of real development.

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Dr. Abdul-Hameed, who holds two doctorate and three master’s degrees, lamented the continued discrimination between HND and BSc holders, stating,

“In advanced climes, the in-thing is vocational skills… Even the British, whose educational system we are copying, has phased out HND.”

He emphasized that the dichotomy between polytechnic and university graduates has stunted national development, arguing that skill acquisition—not degrees—should be the core of Nigeria’s educational pursuit. “We are not progressing because we place so much emphasis on paper qualifications,” he added.

Speaking on his experience as the pioneer rector of the Federal Polytechnic Ayede, Dr. Abdul-Hameed recounted the early struggles of the institution, including unpaid salaries and lack of infrastructure in the first year. However, through stakeholder support and intervention from the Federal Ministry of Works, progress was made. The polytechnic began academic activities in July 2022 with four NBTE-approved programmes and now boasts over 1,200 students across 12 courses.

He praised TETFund support, noting their role in erecting multiple structures and sponsoring staff for postgraduate studies and research. “TETFund has tremendously been of help,” he said, highlighting their involvement in constructing a 250-seater auditorium and other permanent site structures.

While acknowledging the Tinubu administration’s efforts, he called for urgent intervention in constructing access roads to the school’s permanent site.

“We have 11 or 12 structures at our permanent site but they are not being put into use,” he lamented.

Dr. Abdul-Hameed also addressed misinformation about an alleged building collapse, clarifying that it was merely a structural failure during ongoing construction, not a completed facility.

On artificial intelligence, he said, “We are leaving no stone unturned to ensure our students are up to date,” referencing recent AI lectures and TeTFund-sponsored ICT interventions.

Commenting on power generation, he revealed the institution’s pivot to solar energy: “We are going solar because it is the vogue.”

The rector emphasized that the polytechnic maintains a cordial relationship with host communities and has adhered to federal character principles in staffing. He also highlighted the institution’s achievements in research and entrepreneurship development.

Despite plans to relocate to the permanent site in December 2024, lack of road infrastructure remains a hindrance.

Nevertheless, Dr. Abdul-Hameed remains optimistic: “If someone can assist us to link up our permanent site… that would be too fantastic.”

In conclusion, reiterated the need for a national paradigm shift in education: “It is high time we forgot about paper qualifications and focused on positive impacts we can make on society.”