No More “Inferiority Complex”: FG Set To Turn Polytechnics Into Degree Varsities

TThe Federal Government has announced a reform granting polytechnics the authority to award degrees, ending decades of discrimination against Higher National Diploma (HND) holders and positioning technical and vocational education as a key driver of national development.

Speaking on Wednesday in Abuja, while addressing a high-level retreat of council chairmen, commissioners of education, rectors, registrars and bursars,
Tunji Alausa, Minister of Education, described the policy shift as a major step toward elevating polytechnics into centres of excellence, strengthening industry partnerships, and equipping graduates with the skills needed to drive Nigeria’s economic growth.

The minister said the move would end decades of discrimination against polytechnic graduates and elevate polytechnics into centres of excellence within Nigeria’s higher education system, placing polytechnic education on a stronger footing while preserving its core strength in hands-on, industry-focused training.

“Polytechnics are not mere institutions; they are the crucibles where innovation meets practicality, where skills forge economic resilience, and where sustainable development becomes a lived reality for our nation.”

He noted that Nigeria’s future competitiveness depends on a workforce equipped to create, build and solve real-world problems.

The minister explained that the policy aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises job creation, industrial growth and human capital development.

With degree-awarding status, polytechnics are expected to attract stronger industry partnerships, improved funding opportunities and greater public confidence.

Alausa assured stakeholders that the transition would be guided by clear standards, strong regulation and quality assurance mechanisms to ensure global competitiveness.

Speaking on the theme “Transforming Polytechnic Education in Nigeria: Innovation, Good Governance and Sustainability for National Development”, the minister said polytechnics are critical to building a skills-driven economy.

He stressed that the Ministry has prioritised Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) to ensure graduates are industry-ready, innovative and capable of driving economic growth.

He urged polytechnic leaders to entrench innovation through entrepreneurship centres, research hubs and robust industry partnerships, identifying renewable energy, agri-technology, digital manufacturing and climate-resilient solutions as priority areas.