The National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) has warned that university degrees in Nigeria may become less valuable in the next 15 years if education does not focus more on practical skills.
Professor Idris Bugaje, the NBTE Executive Secretary, explained in an interview that the job market is changing fast. He noted that many employers now prefer workers with hands-on skills rather than just academic qualifications.
He also warned that graduates who lack practical experience may struggle to find jobs, as companies are looking for professionals with technical abilities.
“The world is moving towards skills, not just certificates,” Bugaje stated. “In countries like China, over 600 universities have been converted into skill-based institutions to meet industry demands. If Nigeria fails to follow suit, our degrees may become meaningless.”
To address this issue, the NBTE is pushing for major changes, including adding skill-based training to university programs and allowing polytechnics to offer Bachelor of Technology degrees.
Professor Bugaje explained that these reforms would help connect education with industry needs and reduce discrimination against Higher National Diploma (HND) holders.
He pointed out that global companies like Google and Microsoft focus more on practical skills and certifications rather than traditional degrees when hiring.
Bugaje urged Nigerian schools to update their teaching methods to match industry demands, ensuring graduates remain competitive in the job market.
As discussions on education reform continue, the NBTE’s warning highlights the need for Nigeria to shift towards a more skills-focused learning system.
