Skill Education: Minister Urges School Principals to Foster Entrepreneurial Skills for Student Success

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2024 Annual General meeting (AGM) for Principals Unity Colleges
2024 Annual General meeting (AGM) for Principals Unity Colleges

In a renewed call to equip Students with the tools they need for long-term success, Minister of State for Education Hon Dr Tanko Sununu has urged School Principals of Federal Unity Colleges across the Nation to prioritize the integration of entrepreneurial skills into their curricula. Speaking at the Annual General meeting of Principals of Federal Unity Colleges in Abuja the Minister emphasized the growing importance of preparing Students for a rapidly changing global economy, where innovation and entrepreneurship play a crucial role.

Sununu noted that traditional educational models, must evolve to meet the demands of the 21st century. “We must ensure our Students are not just ready for jobs but ready to create jobs,” said Sununu. “By fostering entrepreneurial thinking, we give them the opportunity to become leaders and innovators, capable of turning challenges into opportunities and contributing to the future of our economy.”

Sununu highlighted the critical role that school principals play in this transformation. “Principals are in a unique position to champion change and inspire teachers and students alike. I call on all school leaders to actively engage in promoting entrepreneurial skills and creating environments where students can develop their creativity, problem-solving, and leadership capabilities.”

Dr Sununu’s appeal comes as part of the Ministrys broader strategy to enhance skill-based education and ensure that young people are equipped with practical abilities to thrive in both local and global markets. This initiative aligns with the state’s economic development plan, which emphasizes innovation and entrepreneurship as key drivers for future growth.

In addition to advocating for entrepreneurship, Sununu called for partnerships between schools and local businesses, industry leaders, and entrepreneurs to offer mentorship and hands-on learning opportunities for Students. “We must bridge the gap between education and the real world, so Students can apply their skills in meaningful ways,” he added.

The State Department of Education has been tasked with developing guidelines and resources to support schools in implementing entrepreneurship programs and integrating them into the existing curriculum.

This latest initiative underscores Sununu’s commitment to ensuring that every Student has the opportunity to succeed in an increasingly competitive and dynamic economy.

Also speaking at the event, the Executive Secretary of the National Senior Secondary Education Commission (NSSEC) Dr Iyela Ajayi noted that Entrepreneurship Education equips the learners and the society in general with the skill necessary to become innovative thinkers and job creators, fostering self-reliance and contribution to our national growth.

Also Chairperson, Federal Unity Colleges and Principal, FSTC, Ilesa, Dr Idowu Akinbamijo, said the annual meeting focuses on the issues of skills acquisition leveraging on technology as these were crucial for fostering a dynamic learning environment and equipping young people with the skills necessary to thrive in the modern workforce.

In today’s rapidly evolving world, where traditional career paths are becoming less reliable, equipping students with entrepreneurial skills is essential for their long-term success. Entrepreneurial education fosters a mindset of innovation, resilience, and adaptability, enabling students to not only seek employment but also create opportunities for themselves and others.

Boriowo Folasade
Director Press and Public Relations