Preserving Nigeria’s Future Workforce: Fed. Min. of Education Highlights Discipline, Innovation and TVET Reform As Foundations For National Development

"The new TVET Initiative is designed to close Nigeria’s widening skills gap and modernise technical training." Prof. Idris Bugaje, Executive Secretary of the National Board for Technical Education

Focused on building a skilled, disciplined and innovative generation of learners, the Federal Ministry of Education has reiterated its commitment to strengthening Technical and Vocational Education and Training.

This, the Ministry said is by improving classroom delivery and promoting effective student discipline across Nigeria’s secondary schools. 

In a press statement signed by Folasade Boriowo, Director Press and Public Relations of the Federal Ministry of Education, it stated that, "This renewed focus formed the core of discussions at the Southwest Principals’ Conference in Lagos, where senior education leaders presented strategies to align schools with national development priorities.

Dr. Aroge Ayodele, Director, NBTE South West Zonal Office, who represented Prof. Idris Bugaje, Executive Secretary of the National Board for Technical Education, restated that the new TVET Initiative is designed to close Nigeria’s widening skills gap and modernise technical training. 

He noted that only 134 technical colleges currently exist out of over 15,000 secondary schools, highlighting the need for urgent reform. 

"The programme prioritises 25 trade areas, including automotive technology, welding, solar installation, digital media and hospitality, while offering free tuition, monthly stipends and start-up support for unemployed youth, junior secondary school graduates and informal-sector artisans seeking certification. 

Although challenges such as limited facilities, instructor shortages and funding gaps persist, he emphasised the need for a dedicated National TVET Fund to ensure long-term sustainability.

Contributing to the dialogue on innovation, Prof. Yomi Akindele-Oscar of Olabisi Onabanjo University urged schools to adopt modern teaching practices in his presentation titled “Innovative Teaching Methods: Cultivating a Growth Mindset in Students and Staff.” 

He encouraged the use of inquiry-based learning, collaborative activities, project-based instruction and technology-enabled teaching to build confidence, creativity and resilience in learners. 

He added that fostering a growth mindset requires teachers and principals to model positive attitudes, give constructive feedback and maintain emotionally safe classrooms where students can take academic risks. 

He recommended continuous professional development and supportive leadership as essential steps for successful implementation.

Addressing student behaviour and the changing school environment, Elder (Mrs) P. I. Efobi, Director Principal and Head of Top Form Education Associates Ltd, Enugu, examined the emerging challenges of student discipline in Nigerian schools. 

She explained that discipline remains fundamental to school administration, rooted in the role of educators who guide students’ moral and character development. While disciplined learners typically show stronger focus, better relationships and improved academic performance.

She noted that modern societal pressures have introduced complex behavioural issues in Federal Unity Colleges and secondary schools nationwide. Elder Efobi called for a blended disciplinary model that combines traditional corrective practices with supportive approaches tailored to address more serious antisocial behaviours, enhancing students’ personal growth and ensuring safer learning environments.

The Federal Ministry of Education assures all stakeholders that it remains fully committed to strengthening TVET, promoting teaching excellence and supporting schools in managing student behaviour responsibly.

The Ministry welcomes constructive suggestions from local and international partners and reaffirms its determination to build an inclusive, innovative and skills-driven education system that supports national development. The statement reads.