In a bustling neighbourhood of Lagos, a young woman named Funmi discovered her passion. She had always been inclined towards mechanics, fascinated by the intricate dance of gears and the symphony of engines.
Yet, her dreams were not set on a traditional university path. Instead, she embarked on a journey into the world of Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET). Little did she know, her decision would not only transform her life but also contribute to reshaping Nigeria’s economic landscape.
Technical education, as enshrined in the Nigerian national policy on education, is concerned with qualitative technological human resources development directed towards a national pool of skilled and self-reliant craftsmen, technicians and technologists in technical and vocational education fields.
In Nigeria, the training of technical personnel has witnessed many challenges ranging from policies which have no beaming with our problems, curriculum that has little or no relationship with workplace and social needs, embezzlement of funds meant for education development purposes, lack of teacher motivation, inadequate facilities, inadequate funding, brain drain, poor staff training, bribery and corruption.
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Unlocking Nigeria’s Potential: The TVET Advantage
Nigeria’s youthful bulge is both a source of promise and a daunting challenge. With over 40 million young people aged 15-34, it’s a demographic force to be reckoned with.
However, the traditional mindset that equates success solely with a university degree has often led many young Nigerians down a similar path: graduate, search for elusive jobs, and swell the ranks of the unemployed. This paradox begs a critical question: Is there an alternative path to success for Nigeria’s burgeoning youth?
Germany’s TVET Blueprint: A Lesson to Learn
Enter the world of TVET, a dynamic educational paradigm that has been a cornerstone of Germany’s economic success. Germany’s famed apprenticeship system seamlessly blends classroom learning with practical, hands-on experience. This holistic approach produces a skilled workforce that is not only employable but also capable of creating jobs and fostering economic growth.
Consider this: In Germany, around 60 per cent of young people opt for vocational training, not a traditional university degree. These skilled individuals form the backbone of Germany’s thriving manufacturing and engineering sectors, contributing significantly to the nation’s robust economy.
African Pioneers in TVET
But Germany is not the only success story when it comes to TVET. Several African countries have made remarkable strides in advancing their technical vocational education and training systems.
For instance, Rwanda’s commitment to TVET has led to the establishment of state-of-the-art training centres and partnerships with industries, resulting in a workforce with the practical skills needed for economic development.
In South Africa, TVET institutions have evolved to offer a diverse range of courses, from welding to information technology. This adaptability ensures that students are equipped with skills that match the needs of the job market.
The Numbers Speak Volumes
Let us dive into some eye-opening statistics. According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Nigeria’s unemployment rate stood at 27.10 per cent in the second quarter of 2020, with youth unemployment soaring even higher at 34.90 per cent. The traditional education-to-employment pipeline is fraught with challenges.
Now, consider this: TVET graduates are more likely to secure employment directly after their training. They possess tangible skills that make them self-reliant entrepreneurs or valuable assets to businesses. With TVET, job creation is not just a possibility; it becomes a reality.
The Way Forward
The power of TVET in Nigeria cannot be overstated. It offers a versatile, alternative route to success for millions of young Nigerians who may not necessarily fit the conventional university mould. Embracing TVET doesn’t mean devaluing higher education but rather recognising that education should be tailored to individual aspirations and the evolving demands of the job market.
To unleash the full potential of TVET in Nigeria, we must invest in modern, well-equipped vocational training centres, forge partnerships with industries, and challenge the prevailing stigma associated with non-university education paths. By doing so, we can empower our youth to become job creators, innovators, and the driving force behind Nigeria’s economic growth.
As Funmi continues to thrive in her mechanical pursuits, let her story inspire a generation to embrace the transformative power of TVET. It’s time for Nigeria to recognise that not everyone needs a university degree to flourish. TVET is not just an alternative; it’s a catalyst for change, a blueprint for self-reliance, and the key to unlocking Nigeria’s bright future.
It cannot be an overstatement to say that technical and vocational education is the engine of economic growth. No nation can prosecute a war without an army. In the same vein, Nigeria cannot develop without well–equipped technical and vocational institutions. It is a missing link in Nigeria’s development policy.
For this reason, the nation must invest heavily in education with particular attention given to vocational and technical education. The National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) and teachers in this area should take up the campaign for more funds for vocational education and to launder its image in society it has been this way in many societies. Nigeria should now begin to implement policies aimed at repositioning technical education for effective competition in the emerging global market.
The United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) has noted that revitalising this sector is among the ways to improve economic opportunities for the youth. Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the affiliated Unions could also give their support in this regard by setting up functional vocational training centres in the local government areas from where the people could go and acquire some job skills.
