Bridging the HND Gap in Nigeria

Many holders of Higher National Diploma (HND) certificates recently arrived at the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Orientation Camps, eager to begin their one-year national service, only to be turned away due to the absence of Industrial Training (IT) certificates. This unfortunate situation underscores a critical gap in the administration of tertiary education in Nigeria and highlights the importance of aligning academic qualifications with industry requirements.

In Nigeria, as in many parts of the world, tertiary education encompasses both academic training and the acquisition of practical skills, leading to either degree or diploma certifications. While Industrial Training may not be mandatory for all degree programs, it is indispensable for those pursuing the Higher National Diploma. Indeed, the transition from National Diploma to Higher National Diploma is contingent upon students completing the IT program and obtaining the necessary certificate.

This IT certificate is a crucial document that must be presented at the NYSC Orientation Camp for registration and participation in the scheme. It is, therefore, perplexing that some institutions graduate their students with HND certificates without ensuring that they have completed the IT component. What possible justification could there be for this serious oversight?

Industrial Training is an essential part of diploma education because, unlike many university courses that are largely theoretical, diploma programs are practical in nature. These programs, offered by monotechnics, polytechnics, and colleges of technology, are designed to equip students with hands-on experience that bridges the gap between classroom learning and the realities of the workforce.

The IT component aims to immerse students in real-world work environments, which are often vastly different from academic settings. By placing students in the midst of industrial operations, alongside the labor force, machinery, and other industrial equipment, IT programs provide invaluable insights that are rarely attainable in a classroom. Many students return from their IT experiences with a deeper understanding of the practical demands of their chosen fields, often realizing that academic theories do not fully prepare them for the challenges of the workplace.

CSR REPORTERS commend the NYSC for its decision to refuse registration to HND holders who lack IT certificates. This action not only upholds the integrity of the NYSC program but also underscores the importance of ensuring that graduates are adequately prepared for the workforce. However, the responsibility does not end with the NYSC. It is imperative that the Corps compiles a list of institutions that graduate students without verified IT experiences, as these institutions are contributing to the production of poorly educated and unemployable graduates.

We also recognize the challenges that many students face in securing placements for their IT programs. The current economic climate, characterized by the closure of numerous industries and businesses, has made it increasingly difficult for students to find suitable IT opportunities. Even long-established multinational manufacturing companies are struggling to survive in Nigeria’s unfavorable economic environment, let alone smaller, struggling startups.

To address this issue, it is essential that both State and Federal Ministries of Education collaborate closely with the authorities of HND-awarding institutions to facilitate students’ participation in their IT programs. This collaboration is not only a matter of academic policy but also a significant CSR initiative aimed at improving the employability of Nigerian graduates and enhancing the country’s workforce.

Moreover, the digital revolution presents new and exciting opportunities for students to gain practical experience through IT programs. Any registered and certified business that can provide meaningful practical exposure should be considered a potential IT partner. Educational institutions must take a proactive role in assisting their students to secure these experiences and obtain the necessary certifications.

We urge the rejected NYSC call-ups to comply with the IT requirement to enable them to participate in the national service program. At the same time, we call on all stakeholders—educational institutions, government agencies, and businesses—to work together to ensure that every HND student receives the practical training they need to succeed in the workforce.

Indeed, the integration of IT into diploma education is not just an academic requirement; it is a vital component of a comprehensive education that prepares students for the realities of the working world. By addressing the gaps in the current system, we can create a more robust and employable workforce, contributing to the overall development of the nation.