Bridging the Skills Gap for Nigerian Youth

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…….Stakeholders Unite to Enhance Nigerian Skill Qualification Framework.

The Honourable Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, recently convened a critical meeting with Stakeholders to advance the Nigerian Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF), a pivotal initiative aimed at enhancing the skills and employability of Nigerian Youth.

Highlighting the urgency of aligning educational outcomes with labour market needs, Prof. Mamman reiterated the government’s dedication to bridging the skills gap through strategic policies and collaborations across public and private sectors.

Mamman announced the establishment of 24 skills Centres nationwide, designed to provide equal opportunities for all Nigerians, regardless of their location. He also lauded partnerships with organizations like TETFund and Innovation Hub, which offer practical training and mentorship to young people and academicians.

At the meeting, Prof. Idris Bugaje, Executive Secretary of the National Board for Technical Education, emphasized that the NSQF aims to create a standardized framework for skills training, ensuring that qualifications are recognized and valued both locally and internationally. This framework is poised to enhance the employability of Nigerian graduates and bolster the Country’s economic growth by addressing industry needs.

Prof. Bugaje reported significant progress over the past three years, with the number of Quality Assurance and Accreditation System (QAAS) approvals rising from 3,000 to a projected 6,000 in the near future. He highlighted the recent TETFund intervention, which has provided a substantial boost to skills training in public polytechnics.

Bugaje also underscored the necessity for legislative support of the NSQF and the finalization of the National Skills Policy to ensure sustainable development and implementation of the framework.

Folasade Boriowo
Director (Press & PR)
Ministry of Education