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The Nigerian Institute of Science Laboratory Technology (NISLT) has criticized the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) for its handling of affairs related to Science Laboratory Technology (SLT) graduates from polytechnics in Nigeria. The NISLT, responsible for licensing practitioners in the sector, has raised several concerns about the NBTE’s actions.
In a statement by Yemi H. Gbadegesin, Director General/Registrar of NISLT, the Institute highlighted various issues, including:
- Top-Up Degree Programs: NBTE introduced top-up degree programs without consulting the National Universities Commission (NUC), breaching established protocols.
- Unfulfilled Memorandum of Understanding (MoU): The MoU between NBTE and NISLT, which outlines a joint committee to resolve disagreements, has been ignored by the NBTE. The MoU also acknowledges the importance of NISLT licensure, which has been disregarded.
- Unregistered SLT Lecturers: Approximately 90% of SLT lecturers in polytechnics are not registered with NISLT, contravening the Institute’s mandate. NBTE’s leniency towards this issue is criticized as it promotes unlicensed practices.
- Licensure Requirement: NISLT emphasizes that no professional, including SLT practitioners, should practice without a valid license. The Institute ensures that professionals have met required standards through examinations. NBTE’s actions are seen as undermining these legal frameworks and encouraging quackery.
The Institute also criticized NBTE’s development and release of the Nigerian Skills Qualifications Framework (NSQF) for licensed professionals, which it claims contradicts the Acts establishing professional bodies in Nigeria.