Federal Government Ends HND Admission for Pharmaceutical Technology Programmes
Summary
FG ends HND Pharmaceutical Technology admissions nationwide. Only ND Pharmacy Technician and Pharmacy degrees remain approved qualifications.
Federal Government Ends HND Admission for Pharmaceutical Technology Programmes
The Federal Ministry of Education has officially terminated new admissions into Higher National Diploma (HND) programmes in Pharmaceutical or Pharmacy Technology across all Nigerian polytechnics. The directive takes effect immediately.
What This Means
- Current students: Those already enrolled in HND Pharmaceutical Technology may complete their studies
- New applicants: No institution in Nigeria can admit new students into this programme
- Alternative pathway: The National Diploma (ND) in Pharmacy Technician remains available and is now the approved sub-cadre qualification
Why This Decision?
Professor Idris M. Bugaje, Executive Secretary of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), announced that the decision aligns with global best practices in pharmaceutical manpower development.
Under the Federal Government's Scheme of Service, only two cadres are now recognized in the pharmaceutical field:
- Pharmacist - requiring a degree in Pharmacy
- Pharmacy Technician - requiring ND in Pharmacy Technology
Support for the Policy
The policy has received endorsement from key stakeholders including:
- Council of HND Holders for the Advancement of Polytechnic Education in Nigeria (COHAPEN)
- National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS)
Both organizations expressed support on September 3, 2025, citing the need to maintain pharmaceutical training standards and professional integrity.
Impact on Students
Students who planned to pursue HND in Pharmaceutical Technology should consider alternative programmes or explore the ND Pharmacy Technician pathway. Those interested in becoming Pharmacists should consider university degree programmes in Pharmacy instead.
