The National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) has intensified efforts to strengthen health education through the development of a new Higher National Diploma (HND) curriculum in Health Education and Promotion.
Speaking on Monday at a national pre-critique workshop in Kaduna, the Board’s Director of Curriculum Development, Dr O.O. Bello, described the initiative as a strategic step towards enhancing health education and reinforcing Nigeria’s healthcare system through high-quality technical training.
Dr Bello disclosed that the Board is already working on its tenth curriculum this year, reflecting its commitment to aligning academic programmes with international best practices and producing globally competitive graduates.
He noted that the emergence of new diseases, the growing burden of non-communicable conditions and rapid technological advancements require industry-relevant curricula that equip students with practical, employable skills.
According to him, the curriculum serves as a blueprint for shaping the competencies of Health Education and Promotion Officers, enabling effective service delivery across all levels of healthcare.
He further explained that efforts are underway to harmonise the National Diploma (ND) and Higher National Diploma (HND) curricula, incorporate digital health technologies and simulation-based learning, and ensure full alignment with professional standards.
Dr Bello assured participants of the Board’s technical support and encouraged them to contribute their expertise towards developing a forward-looking and resilient curriculum for the profession.
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He also commended the Board’s Executive Secretary, recently recognised among the world’s most impactful education personalities, for driving reforms in Technical and Vocational Education and Training.
President of the National Association of Health Educators (NAHE), Prof. Shehu Adaramaja, praised the Board for its sustained collaboration and responsiveness to professional needs.
Represented by Associate Professor Nurudeen Akorede, Adaramaja affirmed the association’s commitment to working closely with NBTE to ensure seamless academic progression for diploma holders and strengthen career pathways in health education.
Declaring the workshop open, NBTE Executive Secretary, Prof. Idris Bugaje, expressed appreciation for the association’s partnership following the successful rollout of the programme.
However, Prof. Bugaje raised concerns over funding constraints affecting curriculum development, stressing that skills are dynamic and must continuously evolve to meet changing demands.
