The National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) has stated that henceforth, students of polytechnics across the country will have to master mandatory skills to qualify for graduation, News About Nigeria reports.
The Board’s Head of Media, Hajiya Fatimah Abubakar, disclosed this in a statement on Monday in Abuja.
She noted that the Board has introduced a Mandatory Skills Qualification (MSQ) as a graduation requirement for all newly reviewed National Diploma (ND) and Higher National Diploma (HND) curricula.
The Board stated that the introduction is in line with global trends, especially as skill acquisition is now central to the training of young Nigerians in polytechnics.
Abubakar also stated that diploma holders would now graduate with a National Skills Qualification (NSQ) or its equivalent as an additional certification.
According to her, this means the MSQ is now a requirement for all diploma programmes and must be attained before graduation.
She further noted that the dual certification opens doors to career advancement opportunities as well as providing a strong foundation for upward mobility and career growth.
“NSQ aims to bridge the gap between formal education and industry needs by providing individuals with practical skills relevant to the job market.
“The dual certification of obtaining both an NSQ and an ND in Nigeria offers several benefits, including a comprehensive skill set, increased employability, versatility, professional recognition, and career progression.
“The dual certification offers a competitive edge in the job market, enhances career prospects, and equips individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in their chosen fields,” she stated.
