Reps move to end discrimination between HND, BSc holders
The House of Representatives is set to introduce a bill aimed at ending the long-standing disparity between Higher National Diploma (HND) and Bachelor’s Degree (BSc) holders.
The bill, according to Speaker Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, will ensure equal recognition for both qualifications and make discrimination between the two a criminal offense.
Speaking at the 36th convocation of Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) in Lagos, represented by Hon. Fuad Kayode Laguda, Abbas emphasized the critical role vocational and technical education plays in Nigeria’s development.
He noted that increasing funding for these sectors is essential to foster technological growth and raise the nation’s profile globally.
“We know the importance of education and what the country stands to gain by promoting vocational and technical education.
“The country needs skilled individuals who can drive technological advancement. We are working on legal reforms to ensure that holders of HND and BSc certificates enjoy equal opportunities,”Abbas said.
He also highlighted the need for a supportive environment for vocational education and expressed his commitment to securing more resources for the sector.
During the convocation, Nigeria’s First Lady, Mrs. Remi Tinubu, was honored as a Fellow of the College. Represented by Hon. Wahab Alawiye King, Mrs. Tinubu announced a N50 million endowment fund to support the best female graduates at YABATECH.
She reaffirmed her commitment to empowering young Nigerians, particularly girls, through education.
“We must support the education of the girl child and eliminate all barriers to her success,” she stated.
Also, Dr. Suwaiba Said Ahmed, the Minister of State for Education, read a message from President Bola Tinubu, which outlined ongoing efforts to reform the education sector, including the introduction of a student loan scheme and the assessment of infrastructure in tertiary institutions.
The Rector of YABATECH, Dr. Ibraheem Abdul, highlighted the institution’s 77-year contribution to Nigeria’s educational landscape.
He called for more investment from individuals and corporate bodies to replace aging infrastructure and modernize the campus.
