EXCLUSIVE FEATURE (DEVELOPING STORY): "What Is the Hope for HND Holders?” — Polytechnic Graduates Fear Uncertainty as Universities Suspend Conversion Programmes

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Illustrative image depicting the perceived academic and professional imbalance between HND and B.Sc. qualifications in Nigeria

By Victor Olubiye

The growing uncertainty surrounding conversion or “top-up” programmes in Nigerian universities is raising fresh concerns among Higher National Diploma (HND) holders, many of whom see the programmes as their most realistic pathway to obtaining a Bachelor’s degree without restarting their academic journey.

Recent reports that some universities, including Kwara State University (KWASU), have suspended their conversion programmes following directives linked to the National Universities Commission (NUC) have triggered anxiety among prospective applicants across the country.

National Universities Commission (NUC) — the regulatory body overseeing university education standards in Nigeria

One of those affected is Asiyanbi Blessing, a male graduate of Mass Communication from Osun State Polytechnic, Iree, who described the development as a major setback for HND holders hoping to bridge the academic gap between polytechnic and university qualifications.

Speaking with Victor Olubiye, Blessing questioned what future now awaits graduates who had planned to apply for conversion programmes.


What is now the hope of someone who finished his HND and wishes to apply for conversion programme?” he asked.
Flyers from selected Nigerian universities previously advertising HND Conversion and Top-Up programmes for Higher National Diploma holders

For years, conversion programmes have served as an alternative route for HND graduates seeking Bachelor’s degrees, often allowing them to complete the process within a shorter period than the conventional university pathway.

However, with institutions reportedly suspending the programmes over concerns relating to academic standards and regulatory compliance, many graduates fear they may now be left with only the Direct Entry option — a route that still places them in 200 level despite years already spent in the polytechnic system.

“If Direct Entry becomes the only option, that means after spending about five years in Polytechnic, you still start from 200 level. That feels unfair,” Blessing said.

The development has once again revived conversations surrounding the long-standing HND-B.Sc. dichotomy in Nigeria’s education and employment sectors.

A public announcement post from Kwara State University (KWASU) verified Facebook page announcing the discontinuation of its HND Conversion Programme, following regulatory directives

Despite repeated promises by successive governments to address the disparity, many employers still prioritise Bachelor’s degree holders during recruitment and promotion processes.

Blessing recalled seeing several job advertisements where employers specifically requested B.Sc. qualifications, further intensifying pressure on HND holders to pursue university conversion programmes.

“Why won’t they equate HND with B.Sc.?” he questioned.

He also referenced previous legislative attempts aimed at abolishing the discrimination between both qualifications, noting that although discussions and bills have emerged over the years, implementation remains uncertain.

Beyond policy debates, the issue carries emotional and financial implications for many young Nigerians who already invested years and resources into polytechnic education with hopes of achieving equal professional recognition.

Education stakeholders argue that while maintaining academic standards is important, authorities must also consider practical alternatives for HND holders if conversion programmes are eventually discontinued nationwide.

A WhatsApp status post attributed to Asiyanbi Blessing, where he expresses his views on the HND pathway and advises ND holders on further academic decisions

For Blessing, the situation serves as a warning to younger students currently pursuing National Diplomas.

“That’s why it is advisable after ND to go for Direct Entry early,” he said, while stressing that education should not be measured by certificates alone.

STAKEHOLDERS’ REACTIONS (ONGOING)

This is a developing story. The Creativity Site has reached out to polytechnics lecturers, HND graduates, and education stakeholders for further reactions. Their perspectives will be included in subsequent updates to this report as responses are received.

As uncertainty continues to surround the future of conversion programmes in Nigeria, many HND holders are left asking the same question: if the bridge to university degrees is removed, what truly becomes the hope of polytechnic graduates?

This report is part of an ongoing investigation into the future of HND conversion programmes in Nigeria. Further updates will follow as more stakeholders respond.



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