The National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) has directed that academic staff in polytechnics and other Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions who fail to obtain a Master’s degree within five years of employment will be reclassified as non-teaching staff.

The directive, issued in a circular dated September 10, 2025, was signed by the Executive Secretary of NBTE, Prof. Idris Bugaje, and addressed to all rectors and provosts of TVET institutions.

Prof. Bugaje expressed concern that many degree and Higher National Diploma (HND) holders employed as lecturers had not upgraded their qualifications despite years of service. He noted that the board has now approved a five-year moratorium from the date of employment for academic staff to obtain a Master’s degree.

“Any academic staff who fails to acquire a Master’s degree after five years of employment shall be converted from academic staff to non-teaching staff,” the circular stated.

Bugaje emphasized that the measure takes immediate effect and is aimed at raising teaching standards in polytechnics and TVET institutions in line with global best practices.

He also urged heads of institutions to strictly enforce the directive, assuring them of NBTE’s support in driving professionalism and ensuring quality technical education across the country.