FG Plans to Ensure University Graduates Possess Technical Skills

ABUJA – The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, has pledged to reform Nigeria’s education system to address the growing concern of graduates lacking technical skills. Speaking at the 2024 TETFund National Research Fair and Exhibition in Abuja, Alausa announced plans to transition to an education model focused on 20% theoretical learning and 80% practical training.

Appointed by President Bola Tinubu, the minister emphasized the importance of technical and vocational education (TVET) to equip Nigeria’s youth with employable skills. He decried the current trend of tertiary institutions producing graduates ill-prepared for the workforce and society.

Alausa highlighted the country’s youthful demographic, with over 70% of the population under 30, as a critical driver for the reforms. “We need to realign our educational system to meet the needs of our young population,” he said, adding that hands-on apprenticeship would play a significant role in ensuring students graduate with job-ready skills.

As part of the reforms, Alausa unveiled plans to incentivize enrollment in technical schools by covering tuition fees and building capacity in these institutions. “We will ensure that students in TVET programs spend 80% of their training in practical, hands-on experiences,” he noted.

Additionally, the minister announced that President Tinubu has approved a ₦5 billion allocation for research through the National Research Fund, managed by the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund). The funds aim to support research that addresses critical national challenges, including youth underemployment, poverty, insecurity, and infrastructure deficits.

Dr. Alausa also emphasized the need for better coordination among research and innovation institutions to drive economic growth and support Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. “Economic growth depends on leveraging local research and technological innovation. This synergy will ensure effective nation-building and efficient delivery of democracy’s dividends,” he added.

The minister’s reforms seek to align education with national development goals, fostering a skilled and empowered workforce ready to tackle Nigeria’s challenges.