Reps debate bill to end degree, HND dichotomy
The House of Representatives on Tuesday passed for second reading a bill seeking to end the age long dichotomy between first degree holders and polytechnic graduates with Higher National Diploma (HND).
The bill, sponsored by Rep. Ali Isa from Gombe state, and Rep. Edward Pwajok from Plateau state, is aimed at abolishing the dichotomy between holders of first degree and Higher National Diplomas in the same profession or field.
Leading debate on the bill, Rep. Isa said that HND holders in the country over the years have suffered serious discrimination, which in turn had affected their career progression.
He said, while a first degree holder in the country is employed on grade level 8 and could rise to grade level 17, the HND holder is employed on grade level 7 and cannot exceed grade level 14.
The lawmaker argued that the dichotomy has so far not only affected the career progression of HND holders, but also affected the technological development of the country, as most students now shy away from polytechnic education.
He explained that abolishing the dichotomy will give a boost to the nation’s technological advancement.
“It will enable HND holders to attain the highest level in their career both in the public and private sectors and make their certificates respected outside Nigeria,” he added.
Rep. Pwajok in his contribution said that there is no justification for the dichotomy that currently exists between first degree holders and HND.
He argued that HND is equivalent to first degree and stated that the bill is necessary to end the discrimination against polytechnic graduands.
Speaking against the bill, Rep. Diri Douye (Bayelsa/PDP) said the course content for a first degree and HND is different. ”The HND curriculum is drawn differently from degree curriculum. We should look at policy differentials rather than legislative. We actually cannot sit down here and legislate on this,” he said.
However, Speaker Yakubu Dogara, who presided over plenary, referred the bill to the House Committee on Tertiary Institutions and Services for further legislative action.
