NBTE introduces mandatory skills qualification in polytechnics

By Emmanuel Adeleke

In line with global best practices, the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) has introduced a Mandatory Skills Qualification (MSQ) as a graduation requirement for all newly reviewed National Diploma (ND) and Higher National Diploma (HND) curricula.

This was contained in a statement by NBTE’s Head of Media, Hajiya Fatimah Abubakar, on Monday.

Abubakar stated that diploma holders would now graduate with a National Skills Qualification (NSQ) or its equivalent, as an additional certification.

According to her, the MSQ is now a requirement for all diploma programmes and must be attained before graduation.

She explained that the NSQ was a certification system designed to assess and recognise the skills and competencies of individuals in various fields.

Abubakar noted that it focuses on vocational skills, adding that it is typically obtained through vocational training programmes, apprenticeships, and assessments conducted by approved skill assessment bodies.

“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 a NSQ and 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.

”This dual certification is expected to significantly enhance employability. However, NBTE is aware of the limited skills training facilities in our polytechnics and is therefore allowing a phased introduction.

”The guideline provides polytechnic administrators with methods for implementing this new provision.

“Quality assurance is crucial in ensuring the effectiveness and relevance of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programmes,” she said.

Abubakar added that assessors would play vital role in this process, by evaluating the quality of educaton and training provided in various technical and vocational fields.

She noted that their role will include assessing standards, learning outcomes, and the overall performance of Skills Development Centres (SDCs) in polytechnics and other TVET institutions.

“Under the MSQ, HND level students who have acquired NSQ at the ND level can enroll in Quality Assurance Assessor (QAA) training as an alternative to another NSQ.

“The QAA certificate will be valuable in the workplace, as many industries require on-the-job training,” the statement said.

Abubakar stated that Nigeria’s technical manpower situation was characterised by several challenges, including skill shortages, a mismatch between industry needs and training, and a lack of synergy between industry, government agencies, and TVET institutions.