By Gabriella Ogbu
Nigerian polytechnic students must now complete a Mandatory Skills Qualification (MSQ) to graduate, as mandated by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE). This new requirement aligns with global trends and aims to enhance the employability and skill set of graduates.
The NBTE spokesperson, Hajiya Fatimah Abubakar, announced the implementation of the MSQ, stating that diploma holders will now graduate with an additional certification, the National Skills Qualification (NSQ), or its equivalent. This policy is supported by the recently revised National Diploma and Higher National Diploma curricula.
In a statement released on Monday, June 10, in Abuja, Abubakar highlighted the importance of skill development in polytechnic education, emphasizing that the new requirement reflects global educational practices. According to The Punch, Abubakar noted that the inclusion of the MSQ is intended to ensure that graduates possess practical skills that meet industry needs.
Blueprint reported Abubakar’s explanation of the NSQ as a certification program designed to assess and validate individuals’ skills and proficiencies across various industries. She explained, “It focuses on vocational skills and is typically obtained through vocational training programmes, apprenticeships, and assessments conducted by approved skill assessment bodies. NSQ aims to bridge the gap between formal education and industry needs by providing individuals with practical skills relevant to the job market.”
The dual certification of obtaining both an NSQ and an ND in Nigeria offers several benefits, including a comprehensive skill set, increased employability, versatility, professional recognition, and career progression. This initiative underscores the NBTE’s commitment to enhancing the quality and relevance of polytechnic education in Nigeria, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to meet the demands of the modern workforce.
