NBTE Introduces MSQ For Polytechnic Students

The National Board for Technical Education, NBTE, has introduced a Mandatory Skills Qualification, as a graduation requirement for all newly reviewed National Diploma and Higher National Diploma curricula.

The board said the introduction is in line with global trends, especially as skill acquisition is now central to the training of youths in polytechnics.

This was disclosed in a statement by the board’s Head of Media, Hajiya Fatimah Abubakar, on Monday in Abuja.

Abubakar said diploma holders would now graduate with a National Skills Qualification or its equivalent, as an additional certification.

She said the MSQ is now a requirement for all diploma programmes and must be attained before graduation.

She also noted that the NSQ was a certification system designed to assess and recognise the skills and competencies of individuals in various fields.

“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,” she said.

The NBTE head of media further said that the dual certification opens doors to career advancement opportunities as well as provides a strong foundation for upward mobility and career growth.