The Federal Ministry of Education, in collaboration with the World Bank IDEAS Project, has reinforced its commitment to strengthening Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in Nigeria. This was made known at the closing ceremony of the just-concluded three-week Training of Technical Teachers and Instructors on Skills Development, held at The Polytechnic, Ibadan, and Kaduna Polytechnic on Friday, 21st February.
The Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa, emphasized the importance of equipping educators with the skills needed to drive economic growth. According to his representatives, Dr. (Mrs.) Adenike Olodo at the Ibadan zone and Mrs. Folasade Boriowo at the Kaduna zone, technical education plays a pivotal role in equipping students with practical knowledge and skills in their area of specialization.
“The Federal Ministry of Education is committed to modernizing curricula, upgrading infrastructure, and fostering collaboration with stakeholders to ensure that our educators are equipped to provide students with the practical skills required to succeed in the global economy,” they added.
Professor Salihu Abdulwaheed Adelabu, Oyo State Commissioner for Education, Science, and Technology, commended the initiative, highlighting the urgent need for practical skills acquisition beyond paper qualifications. “We must ensure that our students are equipped with the skills required to compete globally,” he said. “The Oyo State Government is committed to supporting vocational training initiatives that prepare our youths for the workforce.”
At Kaduna, the Executive Secretary of the Science and Technical School Board, Kano, Dr. [Name], appreciated the Federal Government for the intensive training aimed at improving skills development in the country.
Representing the IDEAS Project, Mrs. Blessing Ogwu, National Coordinator of IDEAS, and Mr. Aleshe Ademuyiwa emphasized the project’s role in increasing the availability of skilled technical teachers. They described technical education as key to closing Nigeria’s skills gap and ensuring employability.
In a similar vein, at Kaduna, Mrs. Uhuoma Chidiebere Francisca, who represented the National Project Coordinator, tasked the beneficiaries with guiding their students in an ever-evolving job market. She further stated, “I encourage you to go back and engage with activities, exchange new ideas, and leverage opportunities.”
Dr. Tony Okwa, Chairman of the IDEAS Project TTIs Task Team, lauded the facilitators and participants, encouraging them to apply their knowledge to turn their institutions into hubs of practical learning. “We must ensure that our schools equip students with skills that meet global industry demands,” he emphasized.
Some of the dignitaries at the event included Mrs. Williams Esan, Executive Secretary of the Oyo State Board for Technical and Science; Dr. Abubakar Saleh Jadas, Dean of Kaduna Polytechnic; Engr. Eji Oga Inalegwu, Human Resource Strategy for Skills Development; and Sani Wada Bala, IDEAS Project Coordinator, North West Zone.
The event concluded with the recognition of outstanding participants in the two zones.
The Federal Ministry of Education remains committed to strengthening TVET in Nigeria, and the just concluded three-week training program as testament to this commitment.
Signed
BORIOWO FOLASADE
Director, Press and PR
