The National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) has suspended the implementation of the Draft 2024 Schemes of Service for Polytechnics until all discrepancies are addressed.
Professor Idris Bugaje, the Executive Secretary of NBTE, made this announcement during a news briefing in Kaduna. He noted that several areas required amendments, including issues related to the treatment of HND holders, the omission of certain cadres, and the extension of the waiting period for promotions beyond three years.
Professor Bugaje emphasized the need to align the Schemes of Service with those of other tertiary institutions in Nigeria, which allow for at least one career progression step for all cadres.
Feedback from the Committee of Rectors of Federal Polytechnics, Polytechnic staff unions, and the National Association of Polytechnic Students has been forwarded to the Head of Civil Service of the Federation for consideration.
One contentious issue raised by the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) was the introduction of the Nigerian Skills Qualification (NSQ) certificate for lecturer promotions. Professor Bugaje clarified that the NSQ is a formally recognized qualification and is already included in the National Schemes of Service.
He also addressed concerns from the Federal Polytechnics Academic Staff Union (FEPASU), affirming that the Schemes of Service were specifically designed for federal polytechnics, which have different governance structures compared to state polytechnics.
Professor Bugaje stated that NBTE cannot impose the new Schemes of Service on state polytechnics after final validation, noting that ASUP primarily represents state polytechnics and should focus on them. He assured that future accreditation in state polytechnics would focus strictly on academic programs to maintain standards.
Expressing appreciation for the constructive feedback from NAPS, SSANIP, NASU, and FEPASU, Professor Bugaje assured that all concerns would be addressed before the new Schemes become fully operational.
He highlighted that the recently approved Schemes of Service for the Polytechnic sector had been circulated, with proposals for amendments submitted to the Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Dr. Mrs. Folasade Yemi-Esan.
The new 2024 Schemes of Service recognize HND holders as Graduate Assistants, similar to their university counterparts. Additionally, every polytechnic student will now be required to complete a Mandatory Skills Qualification (MSQ) before graduation.
However, the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) has rejected the new Schemes of Service, citing several provisions that do not meet their standards. ASUP President Shammah Kpanja announced a 15-day ultimatum for the Federal Government, starting from July 8, 2024, to address their concerns.
DNews Info is a trusted source for breaking news, insightful commentary, and in-depth coverage of events across Nigeria and beyond. With a commitment to delivering accurate, timely, and engaging stories, we aim to keep our readers informed and empowered. Stay connected for the latest updates in politics, business, entertainment, and more.
Discover more from DnewsInfo
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
