Ilorin — Contrary to the widely held insinuation of a dichotomy between University degree and Higher National Diploma (HND), there is no disparity between the two certificates, Rector of Kwara State Polytechnic Alhaji Mas'ud Elelu has said.

Elelu said the question of disparity does not arise because it is distinctively clear that the two degree certificates are independent on their own.

Speaking during the 2012/2013 matriculation ceremony for the over 7000 newly admitted students of the polytechnic, Elelu said while the university degree should be on its own, the polytechnic HND "should catch a niche for itself".

According to him, the polytechnic degree is technology-based and "technology hands-on" should be the most paramount. "Technological education is different from degree education which we are used to", he said, adding that this explains why the institution puts ample emphasis on entrepreneurship training for its students.