The National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) has introduced the Mandatory Skills Qualification (MSQ) as a new graduation requirement for all newly reviewed National Diploma (ND) and Higher National Diploma (HND) curricula.
This initiative is part of NBTE’s efforts to align with global trends and emphasize the importance of skill acquisition in the training of young Nigerians in polytechnics.
According to a statement from the Board’s Head of Media, Hajiya Fatimah Abubakar, diploma holders will now graduate with a National Skills Qualification (NSQ) or its equivalent, in addition to their primary diploma. This dual certification aims to enhance employability by ensuring that graduates possess both academic knowledge and practical skills.
Given the current limited skills training facilities in many polytechnics, the NBTE is allowing a phased introduction of the MSQ. Guidelines have been provided to polytechnic administrators to facilitate the implementation of this new requirement effectively. Quality assurance is emphasized to ensure the effectiveness and relevance of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programs.
Under the MSQ framework, HND students who have already obtained an NSQ at the ND level can enroll in Quality Assurance Assessor (QAA) training as an alternative to another NSQ. The QAA certification is expected to be valuable in the workplace, as many industries require on-the-job training.
NBTE’s introduction of this dual certification system aims to address several challenges in Nigeria’s technical manpower situation, including skill shortages and the mismatch between industry needs and training. By fostering better synergy between industry, government agencies, and TVET institutions, the initiative hopes to open doors to career advancement and provide a solid foundation for upward mobility and career growth.
Overall, the dual certification is intended to give graduates a competitive edge in the job market, enhance their career prospects, and equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in their chosen fields.
