AAPOLY Gets NBTE Approval for New Courses, Full Accreditation

AAPOLY Gets NBTE Approval-The National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) has granted significant academic approvals to the polytechnic, marking an important milestone in the institution’s growth and long-term academic planning.

Following a comprehensive evaluation exercise, several existing programmes have received full accreditation, while several new courses have been cleared to commence at both National Diploma (ND) and Higher National Diploma (HND) levels.

This development reinforces the institution’s standing as a centre for skill-based education and strengthens its capacity to deliver industry-relevant training across diverse academic disciplines.

Programmes Awarded Full Accreditation Status

As part of the latest accreditation outcome, NBTE confirmed that several established programmes have met all required benchmarks and have therefore been granted full accreditation for a five-year duration. This status signifies that the programmes comply with national academic standards and are fit to continue admitting and graduating students without restriction within the approved period.

The programmes that secured full accreditation include:

Higher National Diploma in Science Laboratory Technology (Microbiology specialisation)
National Diploma and Higher National Diploma in Business Administration
Higher National Diploma in Urban and Regional Planning

These programmes underwent rigorous assessment processes that covered multiple areas of academic delivery and institutional readiness.

What NBTE Evaluated Before Granting Accreditation

Before approving the programmes, NBTE officials conducted an extensive verification exercise that examined the polytechnic’s overall preparedness. The assessment focused on critical elements such as:

Availability and condition of lecture halls and laboratories
Adequacy and qualification of teaching and technical staff
Access to learning materials, equipment, and libraries
Quality of academic records, curriculum delivery, and assessment methods

Only programmes that met or exceeded NBTE’s prescribed benchmarks were awarded full accreditation, confirming the institution’s compliance with national standards for technical and vocational education.

Fresh Programmes Approved for Take-Off

In addition to renewing accreditation for existing courses, NBTE also authorised the polytechnic to introduce a range of new academic programmes. These newly approved courses span emerging fields, professional disciplines, and technology-driven areas, reflecting current labour market demands and evolving industry trends.

The newly cleared programmes include:

National Diploma in Public Administration
Higher National Diploma in Strategic Communication and Media Studies
Higher National Diploma in Film and Multimedia Production
Higher National Diploma in Marketing
Higher National Diploma in Networking and Cloud Computing
Higher National Diploma in Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technology (Power and Machines option)
Higher National Diploma in Science Laboratory Technology (Chemistry specialisation)
Higher National Diploma in Computer Engineering Technology

With these additions, the polytechnic significantly broadens its academic offerings in management, media, creative industries, applied sciences, and information technology.

Academic and Career Value of the New Courses

The approval of these programmes positions the institution to train students in areas that align with modern workplace realities. Fields such as cloud computing, multimedia production, strategic communication, and computer engineering are increasingly relevant in today’s digital economy.

By introducing these courses, the polytechnic creates new pathways for students seeking practical skills, professional certification, and improved employability after graduation.

NBTE Issues Important Accreditation Advisory

NBTE has issued a clear reminder regarding the newly approved programmes, stressing that full accreditation must be sought within the stipulated timeframe once the programmes begin operation. Failure to invite the Board for accreditation assessment at the appropriate time may result in the withdrawal of approval to admit students into those courses.

The Board emphasised that programme approval is only the first step and that continued compliance with accreditation standards is mandatory to sustain programme validity.

Overview of the Accreditation Inspection Process

According to NBTE, its accreditation procedures involve a detailed on-site inspection conducted by expert panels. During the most recent evaluation exercise in November 2025, the visiting team examined:

Academic buildings and workshop facilities
Laboratory equipment and teaching aids
Staff strength, credentials, and workload distribution
Institutional governance structures and academic procedures
Compliance with approved curricula and instructional standards

These checks are designed to ensure that students receive quality education supported by adequate infrastructure and qualified personnel.

Polytechnic Leadership Reacts to NBTE Approval

Reacting to the approvals, the Rector, Engr. Mobolaji Onasanya expressed appreciation to NBTE for its confidence in the institution’s academic direction. He also commended members of staff for their commitment and consistent efforts in meeting regulatory expectations.

According to the Rector, the successful outcome reflects years of investment in infrastructure, staff development, and curriculum improvement. He noted that the institution remains committed to maintaining high standards in both teaching and learning.

Commitment to Practical and Industry-Focused Training

The Rector further highlighted that the approved and accredited programmes align with the polytechnic’s philosophy of combining classroom instruction with hands-on experience. He explained that students will benefit from training models that closely simulate real-world professional environments.

This approach, he added, ensures that graduates are not only academically qualified but also practically prepared to function effectively in their chosen fields.

Implications for Prospective and Current Students

The latest accreditation and programme approvals are expected to increase interest in the polytechnic among prospective applicants. With a wider selection of recognised courses now available, students have more options to pursue careers in science, technology, management, media, and engineering.

For current students, the full accreditation status provides assurance that their qualifications will be nationally recognised and professionally relevant upon graduation.

Strengthening the Polytechnic’s Academic Future

Beyond immediate student benefits, the expansion supports the institution’s long-term strategy of academic diversification and quality assurance. By continuously updating its programme portfolio while adhering to regulatory standards, the polytechnic positions itself as a competitive hub for technical and vocational education.

This milestone also reinforces the institution’s responsibility to sustain quality delivery as student enrolment grows.

Looking Ahead

With NBTE’s endorsement secured, attention now shifts to effective implementation, continuous monitoring, and preparation for future accreditation exercises. The institution is expected to maintain momentum by strengthening facilities, recruiting qualified staff, and ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements.

As Nigeria’s demand for skilled professionals continues to rise, the polytechnic’s expanded programme offerings place it in a strong position to contribute meaningfully to workforce development and national growth.