In Nigeria, the disparity between holders of a Higher National Diploma (HND) and those with university degrees is a topic of significant concern. This discrimination, often perpetuated by employers, has profound implications for the nation’s development and the future of its youth. The prevailing attitude that favours university graduates over HND holders is unfounded and detrimental to Nigeria’s progress as a whole.
It is essential to recognise that both HND and university graduates undergo rigorous training and education. They complete the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) programme, equipping them with practical skills and experiences essential for the workforce. This commonality should, in theory, level the playing field; however, many employers still regard HND holders as inferior. This perception is often rooted in historical biases rather than objective measures of capability and skill, leading to a culture of discrimination that undermines the potential of countless individuals.
Discriminatory practices by employers include the outright exclusion of HND holders from job advertisements, which often specify a preference for university degrees. When HND holders are hired, they frequently receive lower salaries and are placed in subordinate roles compared to their university graduate counterparts. Moreover, employers may exhibit bias in promotions, where HND holders are overlooked in favour of university graduates, regardless of performance or experience. Such practices reinforce the unjust notion that an HND is less valuable, perpetuating inequality in the workplace.
This discrimination feeds a cycle of inequality. Employers often assume that university graduates possess superior skills and knowledge, despite the fact that HND programmes are designed to provide practical, vocational training that is highly relevant to various industries. By relegating HND holders to lower positions, employers waste the talents of these individuals and limit the diversity of perspectives and skills within their organisations. This lack of inclusivity stifles innovation and creativity, which are crucial for driving economic growth in Nigeria.
The teaching profession is particularly affected by this skills mismatch. Many HND holders enter the education sector after completing postgraduate courses in education, qualifying them to be trained teachers. Despite their qualifications and practical experience, they often struggle to attain higher positions such as principals, remaining stuck at lower levels due to the bias against their educational background. This not only affects their career prospects but also undermines the quality of education, as capable individuals are overlooked for leadership roles.
The consequences of this academic discrimination extend beyond immediate employment opportunities. Young people may become disillusioned with the education system, leading to a decline in enrolment in polytechnic institutions. If prospective students perceive that an HND will not offer them a fair chance in the job market, they may opt for alternative paths, potentially abandoning their aspirations for higher education altogether. This trend threatens to diminish the skilled workforce that Nigeria desperately needs to compete in a global economy.
Furthermore, the stigma attached to HND qualifications can lead to a lack of self-esteem and motivation among graduates. When society values one type of education over another, it sends a clear message that some forms of learning are less valid. This can discourage talented individuals from pursuing their passions, ultimately resulting in a loss of potential innovators and leaders who could contribute significantly to Nigeria’s development.
In terms of government intervention, it is crucial for policymakers to legislate against discrimination in the workplace. Establishing equal recognition for HND qualifications in both public and private sectors requires specific legislative measures. This could include enacting anti-discrimination laws that prohibit discrimination against HND holders in hiring and promotion practices, ensuring that employers cannot specify a preference for university degrees in job advertisements.
Introducing equal pay legislation to mandate equal pay for equal work, regardless of the type of qualification held, would ensure HND holders receive compensation that reflects their skills and contributions. Implementing a framework for the official recognition of HND qualifications as equivalent to university degrees is essential, ensuring that both pathways are valued equally in the job market.
Moreover, offering tax incentives or grants to organisations that actively hire and promote HND holders would encourage businesses to diversify their workforce. Requiring companies to report on their hiring practices and the composition of their workforce would allow for transparency and accountability in addressing discriminatory practices. Funding public awareness campaigns aimed at educating employers and the public about the value of HND qualifications and the competencies of HND graduates is also vital. Finally, fostering partnerships between polytechnic institutions and industries to ensure curricula align with current job market needs can enhance the employability of HND graduates.
The long-term economic impact of this educational bias is profound. By undervaluing HND qualifications, Nigeria risks stifling the development of a robust and skilled workforce, essential for economic growth. A lack of skilled workers can lead to decreased productivity, reduced innovation, and ultimately stagnation of economic progress. Furthermore, the exclusion of capable individuals from meaningful employment can result in increased poverty rates, which can have cascading effects on social stability and cohesion.
Additionally, the negative perception of HND qualifications may lead to a skills mismatch in the job market. Employers who overlook HND holders may miss out on candidates with practical experience and technical skills that are vital for their organisations. This can contribute to inefficiencies within industries, where the demand for skilled workers remains unmet.
Another crucial aspect to consider is the potential for HND holders to contribute to entrepreneurship. Many HND graduates possess the practical skills necessary to create businesses that can drive economic growth. However, the prevailing stigma may discourage them from pursuing entrepreneurial ventures, leading to a loss of opportunities for job creation and innovation.
In conclusion, the discrimination against HND holders in Nigeria’s employment landscape is a complex issue that demands urgent attention. The belief that a university degree is inherently superior to an HND is not only flawed but damaging to the nation’s development. To foster a more equitable and prosperous society, it is imperative that employers recognise the value of all educational pathways and the contributions of HND graduates. Embracing diversity in qualifications will not only benefit individuals but also enhance the overall growth and innovation of the Nigerian economy. Only then can Nigeria hope to realise its full potential and create a brighter future for its youth.
Copyright © 2025 Fẹ́mi Akínṣọlá. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the author.
