The Nigerian House of Representatives is making significant strides toward addressing the long-standing inequality between holders of Higher National Diplomas (HND) and Bachelor’s Degrees (BSc). This initiative is part of a broader effort to reform vocational and technical education in the country, as revealed by Speaker Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas.
Speaking at the 36th convocation ceremony of Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) in Lagos on Thursday, Abbas, who was represented by Hon. Fuad Kayode Laguda, emphasized the necessity of elevating the status of technical education to help drive the nation’s technological and economic development. He highlighted that increasing the budgetary allocation for these sectors is key to fostering the growth of a skilled workforce capable of propelling Nigeria’s progress.
Abbas revealed that the bill currently under consideration aims to eliminate the discriminatory practice that separates HND holders from their BSc counterparts in terms of employment opportunities and career progression. He stated that the bill would make it a criminal offense to treat holders of the two qualifications differently, ensuring equal opportunities for both groups in the workforce.
“The importance of education cannot be overstated. We need to equip our youth with the skills to propel Nigeria to greater heights, particularly in the areas of technology and innovation. This requires a focused investment in vocational and technical education. In that regard, we are working to amend the legal framework to criminalize the discrimination between HND and BSc holders, ensuring equal opportunities for all,” Abbas said.
He further urged the graduating students to make the most of the opportunities available to them, stressing their critical role in the country’s future success.
During the ceremony, Nigeria’s First Lady, Mrs. Remi Tinubu, who was honored as a Fellow of the College, also underscored the transformative power of education. Represented by Hon. Wahab Alawiye King, Mrs. Tinubu shared her personal commitment to educational development, which led her to establish the New Era Foundation in Lagos, an initiative aimed at supporting educational projects.
As part of her dedication to advancing education, Mrs. Tinubu announced a N50 million Endowment Fund for YABATECH, designed to support the best female graduates of the institution. She emphasized the need to eliminate barriers to the education of girls, stating that empowering young women is essential for the future of the nation.
“The Fund is meant to support the best female graduates, as we work toward removing all obstacles that hinder girls’ education. From my time in the Senate, my focus has been on improving the lives of young people. They are the future of Nigeria, and it is vital that we invest in their education,” she remarked.
Dr. Suwaiba Said Ahmed, the Minister of State for Education, delivered a speech on behalf of President Bola Tinubu, detailing the administration’s ongoing efforts to improve the education sector. These initiatives include the introduction of a student loan scheme and the assessment of the infrastructure needs of tertiary institutions across the country.
Dr. Ahmed encouraged the graduates to serve as positive ambassadors for their alma mater and contribute meaningfully to society. Meanwhile, Dr. Ibraheem Abdul, the Rector of YABATECH, reflected on the institution’s 77-year legacy of shaping Nigeria’s educational landscape. He called for greater support from individuals and corporate entities to help modernize the college’s aging infrastructure.
Prof. Funso Afolabi, the Chairman of the College’s Governing Council, commended the management for the progress made in recent years and reiterated the need for continued collaboration to enhance the institution’s impact on Nigeria’s education system.
In conclusion, this convocation ceremony not only celebrated the achievements of the graduates but also highlighted the significant ongoing efforts to reform Nigeria’s education system, with a particular focus on bridging the gap between HND and BSc qualifications and empowering the next generation of leaders.
