What HND Holders Must Do to Retain Lecturing Jobs in TVET Institutions

The National Board for Technical Education (https://web.nbte.gov.ng NBTE) has issued a new directive that directly affects Higher National Diploma (HND) and Bachelor’s degree holders working as lecturers in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions across Nigeria.

According to the circular signed by the Executive Secretary, Prof. Idris M. Bugaje, any academic staff who fails to obtain a Master’s degree within five (5) years of employment will be converted from academic staff to non-teaching staff. This decision takes immediate effect.

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This directive comes after the Board expressed concern that many lecturers, particularly those with only HND or Bachelor’s qualifications, have not pursued further studies to strengthen their academic capacity.

What This Means for HND Holders

If you are currently employed as a lecturer in a TVET institution with only an HND qualification, you are now under a strict timeline. You have a maximum of five years from your employment date to upgrade your qualification to at least a Master’s degree. Failure to do so means you risk losing your academic position and being reclassified as a non-teaching staff.

Steps You Must Take to Retain Your Lecturing Job

1. Enroll for a Postgraduate Program Early

2. Don’t wait until your fifth year is approaching. Seek admission into a Master’s program as soon as possible to secure your future in the academic line.

3. Choose a Relevant Field of Study

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4. Select a Master’s degree that aligns with your teaching discipline. This will not only satisfy NBTE’s requirements but also enhance your expertise.

5. Consider Part-Time or Distance Learning Options

6. If you are already working full-time, explore part-time, online, or weekend Master’s programs to balance work and study effectively.

7. Seek Institutional or Government Support

8. Some TVET institutions and government agencies provide sponsorship or study leave for staff to upgrade their qualifications. Take advantage of such opportunities if available.

9. Plan Your Finances Wisely

10. A Master’s program requires financial commitment. Start planning ahead by setting aside funds or exploring scholarship and funding options.

Final Note

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The NBTE directive is a wake-up call for HND holders aspiring to build long-term careers as lecturers. Academic growth is no longer optional; it is now a mandatory requirement. If you want to retain your lecturing job and remain relevant in the academic space, the best step forward is to upgrade your qualifications immediately.

Your career growth depends on the action you take today. Don’t delay — start working towards your Master’s degree now.