FG Pledges End To Era Of Unemployable Graduates.
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to producing employable graduates by urging tertiary institutions to align academic programmes with local economic, social, and environmental needs. This initiative aims to address Nigeria’s challenges of unemployment and climate change.
Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, made this call during an interactive session with Rectors of Federal Polytechnics and Provosts of Federal Colleges of Education. He emphasised the need for institutions to ensure that graduates acquire industry-relevant skills essential for the nation’s industrialisation and sustainable development.
To strengthen technical education, the government is set to establish a National Commission for Technical Education. Dr Alausa encouraged institutions to support the Federal Government’s broader education reform agenda, which prioritises high-quality learning and vocational training.
Emphasis on Technical and Vocational Education
Alausa highlighted the government’s commitment to revitalising Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), applying the Pareto rule of 80/20, which prioritises practical training over theoretical learning.
“This new curriculum is designed to equip students with hands-on skills necessary to thrive in today’s dynamic workforce,” he stated. “By aligning academic programmes with industry demands, TVET prepares students for careers in high-impact sectors such as information and communication technology, carpentry, electrical installations, and advanced manufacturing.”
He further explained that the initiative aims to boost technical institution enrolment while ensuring graduates contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s industrial growth.
Strategic Partnerships for Employability
To enhance the effectiveness of this initiative, the Ministry of Education has formed strategic partnerships with the Bank of Industry (BOI) and the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND). These collaborations will provide funding, resources, and internship opportunities to support innovation, entrepreneurship, and employability.
Dr Alausa also stressed the government’s focus on **education quality assurance**, particularly in teacher training and professionalism. He emphasised the role of **Colleges of Education** in addressing gaps in teacher preparation through rigorous **pre-service and continuous professional development programmes**.
Similarly, polytechnics were urged to develop technical instructors with modern pedagogical skills that align with global standards, ensuring Nigeria’s education system meets accreditation benchmarks and produces graduates who can drive national progress.
Focus on Agricultural Education
The minister also called for the integration of agricultural education and food security concepts into technical and vocational training. He urged institutions with Schools of Agriculture to establish farms and agri-tech centres where students can gain hands-on experience in modern farming, food processing, and storage innovations.
Government’s Commitment to Tertiary Education
Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Ahmed, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to advancing tertiary education. She stated that the meeting with education leaders provided a platform for open dialogue and enhanced collaboration to drive positive reforms in the education sector.
The Federal Government’s initiative signals a significant step towards bridging the gap between education and industry needs, ensuring Nigerian graduates are better equipped for the evolving job market.
