Ibadan, Nigeria — Minister of Education, Dr. Marufu Alausa, has emphasized that skill acquisition is now more critical than ever in driving economic growth and social development, urging greater investment in technical and vocational training.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of the Technical Teachers and Instructors Training Workshop in Ibadan, the minister stressed the importance of equipping Nigeria’s workforce with practical, industry-relevant skills to adapt to rapid technological advancements.
The workshop, jointly organized by the Federal Ministry of Education and the World Bank, provided specialized training for 300 participants from South-West states across various vocational fields, including ICT, agriculture, garment-making, automobile repair, and hospitality.
Represented by Dr. M.A. Olodo, Director of the Technology and Science Education Department, Dr. Alausa underscored the pivotal role of technical and vocational education in shaping an economy driven by innovation and productivity.
Addressing the trainees, Dr. Tony Okwa, Chairman of the IDEAS Project Task Team, encouraged them to transfer their newly acquired skills to future generations, ensuring sustainability and long-term impact. Similarly, Prof. Salihu Adelabu, Oyo State’s Commissioner for Education, called for a shift in focus from academic qualifications to hands-on skills training, enabling young Nigerians to become job creators rather than job seekers.
Mrs. Blessing Ogwu, National Project Coordinator of the IDEAS Project, highlighted the initiative’s role in bridging Nigeria’s skills gap and supporting the country’s economic diversification agenda.
The ceremony concluded with the presentation of awards and certificates to outstanding trainees, marking another step toward building a skilled, self-reliant workforce in Nigeria.
By Taiwo Olatinwo | February 21, 2025
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