Reps Move to Abolish HND-BSc Dichotomy, Says Speaker Abbas

Speaker Abbas announces the House of Representatives’ plan to criminalize discrimination between HND and BSc certificates, promoting equality in Nigeria’s workforce.

The Speaker, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abass, has announced that the House of Representatives is actively developing legislation aimed at criminalizing any dichotomy and discrimination between holders of Higher National Diplomas from polytechnics and Bachelor’s Degrees from universities.

Abbas mentioned this on Thursday at the 36th convocation ceremony of Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) in Lagos.

Hon. Fuad Kayode Laguda, a member of the House from Lagos State, represented Abbas at the event. During this occasion, he was awarded a Fellowship by the College.

“We recognize the crucial role of education and understand the benefits that can be achieved by promoting vocational and technical training. The nation requires skilled individuals to elevate it to new heights, particularly in advancing its technological standing. With this in mind, a motion was introduced yesterday aimed at enhancing polytechnic institutions, and with determination and collective effort, we are committed to making this vision a reality.”

He stated, “Furthermore, we are in the process of developing the legal framework needed to eliminate the distinction between HND and BSc certificates. Everyone should have equal opportunities.”

Abbas encouraged the graduating students to venture into the world and make a meaningful impact by seizing the opportunities that arise.

Nigeria’s First Lady, Mrs. Remi Tinubu, who was also awarded a Fellowship with the College, stated that her commitment to and support for education inspired her to establish the New Era Foundation in Lagos State some years ago.

Mrs. Tinubu, through her representative Hon. Wahab Alawiye King, announced a N50 million Endowment Fund for the College.

“The Fund aims to support top female graduates, emphasizing the importance of education for girls and the need to eliminate any obstacles they face. During my time in the Senate, I was dedicated to improving life for our youth because they represent our future,” she stated.

In a speech delivered by Dr. Suwaiba Said Ahmed, the Minister of State for Education, on behalf of President Bola Tinubu who serves as the Visitor to the College, he reflected on his administration’s efforts made thus far to advance education to a higher standard.

He mentioned the launch of the Student Loan Scheme and the implementation of NEEDS Assessment for higher education institutions, among other initiatives.

He encouraged the graduating students to serve as excellent representatives of their College.

In his welcome address, the Rector, Dr. Ibraheem Abdul, stated that the 77-year-old College has left a lasting impact on the country’s education sector.

He sought assistance from generous individuals and corporations to help replace some aging facilities and construct new ones on campus.

Prof. Funso Afolabi, Chairman of the Governing Council, praised the College’s management for their accomplishments since taking office.