The Institute emphasized that SLT is a professional discipline offered at both universities and polytechnics, and it holds the authority to license practitioners in this field.
In a statement issued by Yemi H. Gbadegesin, the Director General/Registrar of NISLT, several missteps by the NBTE were highlighted, including the introduction of top-up degree programs without proper consultation with the National Universities Commission (NUC) and the failure to fulfill a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with the Institute.
“NBTE entered into an MoU with NISLT, yet despite numerous requests from NISLT to amend the MoU according to its stipulations, NBTE has disregarded these appeals. The MoU stipulates that any disputes between NISLT and NBTE should be settled by a joint committee.
NBTE has breached this agreement, particularly concerning institutions that offer SLT programs, even though the MoU recognizes the significance of NISLT licensure.
“Unregistered SLT Lecturers: Alarmingly, 90% of SLT lecturers in polytechnics are not registered members of NISLT, which contravenes the Institute's mandate. This issue is being overlooked by NBTE.
“Licensure Requirement: In Nigeria, no professional—including lawyers, educators, engineers, medical practitioners, and SLT professionals—can legally operate without a valid license. The Institute ensures that SLT professionals possess the requisite knowledge, skills, and compliance with legal standards through examinations as mandated by the NISLT Act.
The actions of NBTE are undermining these legal frameworks and fostering unlicensed practices, which equates to endorsing quackery,” the statement asserted.
Furthermore, the Institute criticized NBTE for developing and releasing the Nigerian Skills Qualifications Framework (NSQF) for licensed professionals, which contradicts the foundational Acts that govern the profession.