Forget the usual scramble for admission forms. From this academic session, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) is taking the reins for all Higher National Diploma (HND) admissions across the nation's polytechnics and allied institutions. This isn't a rumour; it's a directive from the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE). It was contained in a circular dated September 9, 2026, that PUNCH Online got a peek at. The goal, according to NBTE Executive Secretary Prof Idris Bugaje, is to create a single, clear pathway for admissions.

It’s also intended to put a stop to the 'illegal and compromised admissions' that have been causing headaches for students and institutions alike.

The decision comes after a crucial meeting involving the Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, and top officials from JAMB, the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), and the NBTE itself. The Ministry of Education is expected to drop more details next week. But the core idea is simple: make admissions transparent. It'll also ensure that once you get your HND, you can actually be mobilised for NYSC without any hitches.

JAMB is ready to roll. Fabian Benjamin, the board's Head of Media and Information, confirmed that JAMB will comply with the directive. He stated, 'It’s a directive from above and ours is to comply to ensure that the good intentions of the government are achieved.'

This isn't just about HND now. Remember those part-time National Diploma (ND) admissions? They're also under JAMB’s watch. But here’s a catch: part-time students won't take up more than 50 per cent of an institution’s approved full-time quota. So, if you're looking for a part-time spot, expect it to be competitive.

There are also new rules for those with NCE certificates. If you're an NCE holder aiming for an HND, you can only get in through JAMB’s direct admission process. You must also first secure a valid ND. The NBTE is also looking into which ND programmes, especially those in agriculture, might get an exemption from the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) written test. Expect the Minister of Education to review a list of these programmes soon.

Prof Bugaje stressed that strict compliance is non-negotiable. Rectors and provosts who fail to follow the new directive risk serious sanctions. These could include the potential withdrawal of their institution’s operational licence. He also mentioned that the minister has approved the resolution of all pending cases for legally admitted part-time ND and full-time HND students. This will allow them to be mobilised for NYSC swiftly, aligning with the government's 'Renewed Hope Agenda'.

The integration under JAMB is expected to ensure that only accredited programmes are offered. It'll also ensure that institutions stick to their approved student numbers. With this digitisation, the NBTE believes there will be 'no hiding place for illegal admissions'. It’s a bold move to clean up the system. It'll also ensure that technical education pathways are both accessible and legitimate for all Nigerians.