The Executive Secretary of the Board, Processor Idris Bugaje
stated this during the formal presentation of the new Schemes of Service to
Polytechnics stakeholders in Kaduna.
Professor Bugaje explained that, HND Holders with good
grades are now to be appointed as Academic Staff; Graduate Assistants, like
their degree counterparts.
“These marvelous achievements were made possible by the
Mother of Skills Development in Nigeria, the Head of Service of the Federation,
a pillar of support for the Polytechnic sector, and a very fair arbiter in our
affairs, Dr. Mrs Folasade Yemi-Esan, CFR. We are most grateful for her tireless
efforts that culminated in today’s celebration”.
According to him, under the new schemes, the Instructor
cadre which represents segregation against HND holders in the past has been
abolished.
The Technician cadre has been subsumed by the Technologist
cadre, allowing ND holders to be appointed as Assistant Technologists.
The Pharmacy Technology cadre has been maintained. For those
with a HND in Pharmacy Technology, but who may not be allowed to work in
hospitals by the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria, their space in the public service
has been retained”
Professor Bugaje also stated that, the new Schemes of
Service which became operational from June 7, 2024, presents a unified approach
to the recruitment and promotion of staff across Nigerian Polytechnics,
Federal, State, and even private.
Professor Idris Bugaje pointed out that, the milestone has
taken over a decade of struggle and efforts by Staff Unions, Rectors of
Polytechnics through their COHEADS/COFER bodies, the Federal Ministry of
Education, and the NBTE.