In a bold move to modernize Nigeria’s technical education and align with global digital trends, the Federal Government has introduced new Higher National Diploma (HND) programs in Artificial Intelligence (AI), Cybersecurity, Software Engineering, and Networking.
Nigeria Expands Technical Education with Future-Ready HND Programs
The announcement was made by Professor Idris Bugaje, Executive Secretary of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja.
Bugaje emphasized that the initiative is part of the federal government’s broader efforts to prepare Nigerian youth for the Fourth Industrial Revolution by equipping them with digital skills essential for the global economy.
Key Highlights:
- New HND programs launched in AI, cybersecurity, software engineering, and networking.
- Curriculum aligned with the Nigeria Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF).
- Focus on practical, industry-relevant skills.
- Digitization of academic governance and accreditation systems.
Unbundling Traditional Programs for Specialized Skills
Bugaje explained that the NBTE has unbundled traditional HND courses into specialized skill-based programs. This transformation is already being implemented in Nigerian polytechnics under the NSQF.
“We are offering more specialized training modules in emerging tech areas to enhance graduate employability and global relevance,” said Bugaje.
AI-Powered Digital Accreditation System Introduced
In a major technological upgrade, the NBTE has introduced a digital accreditation system powered by artificial intelligence. This platform aims to streamline oversight, ensure academic integrity, and minimize malpractice in technical institutions.
Digital Governance Features:
- AI algorithms to detect duplicate faculty across institutions.
- Centralized platform for uploading data on infrastructure, staff, and equipment.
- Remote accreditation through verified vendors in areas with poor internet access.
“If a lecturer appears on multiple polytechnic websites, the AI system will flag it. This will help us maintain integrity in the accreditation process,” Bugaje explained.
Minimum Standards and Global Relevance
All new and existing programs will follow the Minimum National Academic Standards (MNAS), which outline detailed criteria for faculty, infrastructure, and equipment. This ensures that Nigerian polytechnics maintain a high standard and stay competitive on the global stage.
Driving Economic Growth Through Digital Education
Bugaje noted that these reforms are essential to boosting Nigeria’s economic competitiveness and unlocking new pathways for GDP growth. By embedding technology into education, Nigeria is mirroring the success of countries in Southeast Asia.
“Nigeria has no choice but to embed technology in education and economic development. This is how we can unlock growth and prosperity in the digital age,” he said.
The federal government’s rollout of tech-centric HND programs and digital accreditation tools marks a transformational shift in Nigeria’s technical education landscape. These forward-thinking reforms are expected to empower a new generation of tech-savvy professionals and drive the country’s digital and economic advancement.
