The Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Olatunji Alausa, has unveiled the Federal Government’s transformative six-point agenda to redefine tertiary education in Nigeria. Addressing a strategic meeting with the Provosts of Federal Colleges of Education, Rectors of Federal Polytechnics, and other key stakeholders recently at Abuja. Dr. Alausa stressed the importance of aligning academic programs with national priorities to drive industrialization, innovation, and sustainable development.
Dr. Alausa highlighted the revitalization of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) as a cornerstone of the agenda. He emphasized the adoption of the Pareto Rule, dedicating 80% of training to practical skills, preparing students for careers in high-demand sectors like ICT, carpentry, and advanced manufacturing. He announced plans to establish a National Commission for Technical Education to strengthen TVET and facilitate partnerships with organizations such as the Bank of Industry (BOI) and NELFUND, ensuring access to funding, internships, and entrepreneurial opportunities.
The Honourable Minister underscored the need for curriculum modernization, research-driven innovation, and integrating food security concepts into technical and vocational training. “Institutions must prioritize sustainable practices, modern agritech, and agribusiness education to enhance food security and economic growth,” he noted.
Dr. Alausa also emphasized the importance of integrating sports into Polytechnics and Colleges of Education as a strategic approach to fostering grassroots talent, nurturing future athletes, and promoting holistic development among students.
In her remarks, the Honourable Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Said Ahmad, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving Education governance, policy development, and institutional efficiency. She described the meeting as a vital platform for collaboration and innovative problem-solving, urging stakeholders to contribute actionable solutions to elevate Nigeria’s Education sector.
The Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Alhaji Dikko Shehu, called for the revitalization of grassroots sports within Polytechnics and Colleges of Education. He emphasized the role of school sports in discovering and nurturing talent, citing the impressive achievement of Nigerian students who secured eight gold medals at last year’s World Athletics Championships in France. “Investing in school sports is essential to fostering holistic development and sustaining global athletic excellence,” he stated.
Professor Farouk Rashid Haruna, Chairman of the Committee of Provosts, commended the Honourable Minister for facilitating the interactive session. While appreciating the government’s support for teacher education, he highlighted persistent challenges such as inadequate funding, poorly equipped laboratories, and the neglect of demonstration schools. Professor Haruna advocated for equitable funding for colleges, resolution of union concerns, and take-off grants for newly established institutions.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to transforming Nigeria’s tertiary education sector into a driver of national progress. Through innovation, accountability, and collaboration, the Federal Government aims to produce a workforce equipped to address contemporary challenges and propel Nigeria toward sustainable growth and development.
Signed
Boriowo Folasade
Director Press & PR
