By Balogun Tumininu
The National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) has given principal lecturers a three-year deadline to obtain their doctorate degrees. This directive is in line with the newly approved scheme of service for polytechnics and similar tertiary institutions.
According to a circular signed by NBTE Executive Secretary, Prof. Idris Bugaje, principal lecturers must complete their PhDs within the stipulated timeframe. However, chief lecturers without doctorate degrees can retain their ranks, although they are encouraged to pursue their PhDs.
The circular also noted that senior lecturers and principal technologists have a three-year moratorium to acquire NSQ qualifications.
The new scheme of service was approved by the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation and was formally presented to stakeholders on June 19, 2024. With this directive, polytechnic lecturers are poised to take their academic pursuits to the next level, ultimately enhancing the quality of education in Nigeria’s polytechnics.