The National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) has urged for its elevation to the status of the National Polytechnic Commission, citing the need for stronger legislative backing.

During an oversight visit from the House Committee on Polytechnics, chaired by Fuad Laguda, NBTE Executive Secretary, Prof. Idris Bugaje, stressed the importance of collaboration in achieving this upgrade.

Bugaje highlighted the critical role of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in addressing Nigeria’s skills gap and emphasized the need for adequate funding and updated curricula to enhance polytechnic education.

Bugaje also expressed concerns over challenges facing the sector, including the underutilization of Skills Development Centres, outdated curricula, poor funding, and the impact of the National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF). He urged protection of the NSQF from threats posed by the ITF Amendment Act 2024 and called on the government to address corruption cases affecting the NBTE, including a land dispute in Abuja.

In response, the House Committee assured the NBTE of its support in tackling these challenges and advancing technical education in the country.

By J J

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