Polytechnic Reform Put on Hold: NBTE Suspends Contentious New Service Scheme

The National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) has put on hold the implementation of the revised scheme of service for polytechnics in the country. This decision comes as the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) prepares to embark on a warning strike, with an ultimatum set to expire on Monday. ASUP has expressed concerns over certain aspects of the scheme and has called for its withdrawal. In a circular dated July 19, 2024, and signed by NBTE Executive Secretary Professor Idris Bugaje, the board announced the suspension of the scheme's implementation. The circular was addressed to the governing council, rectors, and provosts of federal and state polytechnics. It stated that the implementation is being suspended until all issues raised regarding the scheme are addressed. This development indicates a temporary reprieve in the impasse between the government and ASUP over the revised scheme of service.