In Nigeria, the debate between polytechnic and university education has been ongoing for decades. While polytechnics were originally established to provide practical, technical, and middle-level manpower for industries, their graduates often face systemic discrimination compared to university graduates.
Many parents may not fully understand these differences before guiding their children toward higher institutions. Below are seven major reasons why parents should carefully reconsider sending their children to polytechnics in Nigeria.
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1. Dictionary and Recognition Issues
Even in international dictionaries and academic references, the term “polytechnic graduate” is often described as a diploma holder rather than a full-fledged degree holder.
For example, while a university graduate is called a degree holder (BSc, BA, B.Ed, etc.), a polytechnic graduate is commonly referred to as an HND holder (Higher National Diploma).
This difference in recognition can affect how employers and institutions abroad view Nigerian polytechnic graduates. A parent who wants international opportunities for their child should understand this distinction clearly.
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2. Difficulty in Getting Lecturing Jobs
Universities in Nigeria rarely employ Higher National Diploma (HND) holders as lecturers. At best, polytechnic graduates are employed as technologists or assistants in laboratories, not as full lecturers.
For instance, a graduate with a BSc in Mass Communication has a higher chance of becoming a lecturer in a university than an HND holder in the same course.
Parents who want their children to pursue careers in teaching or research at higher institutions may face disappointment if the child attends a polytechnic.
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3. Research Limitations
Academic research is a crucial part of higher education. Universities prioritize research output, publications in journals, and innovations, which help graduates climb the academic ladder. Polytechnic graduates, however, are not widely accepted in the same research circles, even if they are brilliant.
For example, while a university graduate can easily pursue a master’s or PhD program in many Nigerian and foreign universities, polytechnic graduates are often asked to undergo additional conversion programs before being accepted. This delays their career progress.
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4. Civil Service Discrimination
In the Nigerian civil service structure, a university graduate can rise to Grade Level 17, which is the peak of the ladder. Unfortunately, HND holders are often restricted from advancing beyond Grade Level 14, no matter how hardworking or competent they may be.
Imagine two friends starting a government job together, one with a BSc and the other with an HND. Over the years, the BSc holder can rise to become a Director, while the HND holder may be stopped three steps below. This unfair discrimination is a major reason many parents now prefer university education for their children.
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5. Limited Postgraduate Opportunities
A university graduate can move directly into a master’s program (MSc/MA) after graduation. On the other hand, most polytechnic graduates with HND are first required to complete a Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) before qualifying for a master’s program. This makes their academic journey longer and more expensive.
For example, a student who finishes a BSc may complete a master’s in two years, while an HND graduate might spend an extra two years on PGD before starting the master’s degree.
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6. Workplace Bias and Salary Differences
In many organizations, especially government parastatals and multinational companies, there is a visible salary gap between HND and BSc holders.
For example, a BSc holder may be employed as an entry-level officer, while an HND holder with the same course may be offered a lower rank, such as an assistant officer.
Parents should be aware that this bias exists and can affect the career growth of their children.
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7. Future Opportunities and Global Recognition
In today’s world, global opportunities matter. Many foreign universities, employers, and institutions recognize university degrees far more than polytechnic diplomas.
A graduate with a BSc from a Nigerian university may find it easier to gain admission abroad or secure international employment compared to an HND graduate. Parents who want their children to compete globally need to consider how this recognition gap could affect their children’s future.
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Polytechnics in Nigeria were designed with a good vision: to provide technical manpower and practical skills.
However, due to systemic discrimination in employment, research opportunities, civil service progression, and international recognition, polytechnic graduates are at a disadvantage compared to their university counterparts.
Parents who want the best for their children should consider these factors carefully before deciding. While polytechnics are not without value, the reality in Nigeria shows that university education opens more doors for career growth, research, and global opportunities.