The National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) has suspended the implementation of the recently approved Schemes of Service for polytechnic staff across Nigeria.
The announcement was made by NBTE Executive Secretary, Professor Idris Bugaje, following significant opposition from the Association of Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP).
ASUP rejected the draft document and threatened to go on strike within 15 days if the Federal Government did not suspend the implementation. The union’s primary concerns include the lack of their input in the document and the inclusion of National Skills Qualifications (NSQ) and PhD acquisition as part of the requirements for lecturer career progression.
Professor Bugaje, at a press briefing in Kaduna, stated that the approved Scheme of Service had been circulated and that proposals for amendments to address contentious issues had been sent to the Head of Service of the Federation, Dr. Mrs. Folasade Yemi-Esan.
He acknowledged that certain areas require amendment, such as the dichotomy against Higher National Diploma (HND) holders, the omission of some cadres, and allowing at least one career advancement skipping for all cadres similar to other tertiary institutions.
Additionally, there is a need to ensure that promotion waiting periods do not exceed three years.
Despite these proposed amendments, Bugaje emphasized that the inclusion of doctoral degrees and NSQ for lecturers remains non-negotiable.
He highlighted that the 2024 scheme is revolutionary as it recognizes HND holders for the first time as graduate assistants, akin to their university counterparts.
This change is seen as a significant step in acknowledging the qualifications of polytechnic graduates.
The introduction of Mandatory Skills Qualification (MQS) for all polytechnic students before graduation, beginning this year, was also underscored by Bugaje. This initiative aims to ensure that diploma holders possess essential practical skills, enhancing their competitiveness in the job market.
Bugaje expressed confidence that the Head of Service would respond promptly to the letter regarding the proposed amendments.
He assured stakeholders that the suspension of the scheme’s implementation would remain in effect until the issues are resolved.
The NBTE’s decision to suspend the implementation reflects its commitment to addressing the concerns of polytechnic staff while maintaining high educational standards and improving the quality of polytechnic education in Nigeria.
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