The National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) has issued a firm directive mandating that academic staff in polytechnics and other Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions who fail to obtain a Master’s degree within five years of employment will be reassigned to non teaching roles.
In a circular dated September 10, 2025, addressed to all rectors and provosts of TVET institutions, NBTE Executive Secretary Prof. Idris Bugaje expressed concern over the persistent failure of many lecturers who hold only degrees or Higher National Diplomas (HND) to upgrade their qualifications despite years of service.
The regulatory body has approved a strict five year grace period from the date of employment, within which academic staff must acquire a Master’s degree. “Any academic staff who fails to obtain a Master’s degree after five years of employment shall be converted from academic to non teaching staff,” the circular emphasized.
Prof. Bugaje confirmed that the directive takes immediate effect and urged institutional leaders to enforce full compliance without delay. The move is designed to elevate teaching standards across polytechnics and TVET institutions, aligning Nigeria’s technical education with global best practices.
He further assured rectors and provosts of the NBTE’s unwavering support in championing quality, professionalism, and excellence in the nation’s technical education sector.
