SSANIP commends FG over bridging programme for HND graduates

The Senior Staff Association of Nigeria Polytechnics (SSANIP) has commended the Federal Government for addressing the issue of dichotomy between holders of university degrees and Higher National Diploma (HND).

The association noted that the bridge programme had removed the existing barrier on career progression for holders of HND, describing the development as a good omen for the nation’s technological development.

Tribune Education recalls that the National Council of Establishment had approved the Postgraduate Diploma as the bridge programme for holders of HND to progress to the peak of their career, especially in the civil service, thus addressing the age-long contentious issue of dichotomy.

In a statement by the National Public Relations Office of the association, Banjo Ogunsipe, SSANIP also commended the Federal Government for recording good success story in the fight against insurgency in the North-East.

The association, however, expressed displeasure at the secrecy that has enveloped the findings and recommendations of the NEEDS Assessment Committee’s report, noting that the non-release of the document speaks volume on the issue of transparency.

It also faulted the reluctance of the federal government to appoint and inaugurate governing councils for all federal polytechnics, saying it had resulted in industrial disharmony in most of those institutions.

SSANIP also noted with dismay the non-payment of salaries to workers, as well as deductions from subventions to state-owned polytechnics. It called on the affected states to re-assess their priorities so that the right of public servants would no longer be violated.