Federal Polytechnic Ayede Rector Appeals to Government to Replace HND with B.Tech for Students' Benefit
Dr. (Engr.) Taofeek Adekunle Abdul-hameed, the Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Ayede Ogbomosho, Oyo State, has urged President Bola Tinubu to consider replacing the Higher National Diploma (HND) with a Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) to bridge the educational dichotomy and enhance opportunities for indigent students nationwide.
Chris Oyeoku Okafor 
In a bid to address educational disparities and promote practical skills acquisition, Dr. (Engr.) Taofeek Adekunle Abdul-hameed, Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Ayede Ogbomosho, Oyo State, has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to consider replacing the Higher National Diploma (HND) with a Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech). The proposed shift aims to create a more equitable educational landscape and enhance opportunities for students, particularly those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
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Abdul-hameed made this appeal during a live radio program in Ibadan, where he underscored the importance of practical skills and entrepreneurship in driving economic development. Drawing on examples from countries like China and the United Arab Emirates, he highlighted the crucial role of technical expertise in fostering economic growth and sustainability.
The Rector emphasized the polytechnics' commitment to equipping students with practical skills and entrepreneurial mindset, noting the scarcity of white-collar jobs and the growing demand for individuals with specialized technical competencies. He stressed the need for a paradigm shift in educational focus towards skill acquisition and entrepreneurship to empower students for self-employment and economic independence.
Abdul-hameed commended the government's efforts to make education accessible through student loans and scholarships, advocating for low tuition fees and initiatives to promote skill acquisition. He urged President Tinubu to support the bill to replace HND with B.Tech, citing the potential benefits for students and the economy.
Furthermore, Abdul-hameed highlighted the importance of allowing students to acquire interest-free loans and emphasized the need for skill acquisition programs to facilitate loan repayment. He expressed confidence that with the government's support, students would be better equipped to pursue their academic aspirations and contribute meaningfully to national development.
