Vocational Education: FG trains 270 technical teachers, instructors in digital literacy
By Ibukun Emiola
The Federal Ministry of Education has trained 270 technical teachers and instructors in Digital Literacy Pedagogy and Trade Specific in Nigeria.
At the closing of the 21-day training in Ibadan on Friday, the Minister of Education, Dr Olatunji Alausa, said the training considered the demand for skilled workforce in the 21st century.
Alausa further stated that the training was to strengthen technical and vocational education in the country.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the minister was represented by Dr Muyibat Olodo, Director, Technology and Science Education.
According to Alausa, as technological advancements reshape industries and create new opportunities, the need for skilled professionals who can adapt and innovate becomes paramount.
“Technical and vocational education plays a pivotal role in this context as it equips individuals with the practical knowledge and skills necessary to excel in their respective fields.
“More importantly, it bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world applications, ensuring that our students are not just educated but are also employable and industry-ready.
“This training programme is not merely about acquiring new teaching methodologies, but rekindling the passion for skill development, embracing innovation, and preparing our students to be globally competitive,” said the minister.
He stated that well-trained teachers or instructors do not just teach; they also inspire.
The minister further said the impact of skilled educators could be seen in the numerous success stories of students who had become entrepreneurs, innovators, and problem-solvers.
“This is because they had teachers who believed in their potential.
“You are the cornerstone of our educational system, and your role is indispensable in shaping the future of our students and, consequently, our nation,” Alausa said.
The Oyo State Commissioner for Education, Prof. Salihu Adelabu, commended the Federal Government for training the technical teachers as required in the Technical and Vocational Education Training (TVET) curriculum.
According to him, training was the missing piece in the past as there was usually infrastructure and personnel provided for the implementation of TVET.
“And that is what we are saying: our teachers are capable and competent, but the moment the capacity building is lacking, you can’t give what you don’t have,” Adelabu said.
The commissioner charged participants to apply the knowledge gained, adding that Oyo State has taken the lead by revamping and remodelling all its technical colleges.
The acting Rector, The Polytechnic, Ibadan, Dr Taiwo Lasisi, said the confidence to handle contemporary challenges in the modern workplace was germane.
NAN reports that the rector was represented by Dr Kehinde Faniyin, the Dean of the institution’s Faculty of Business and Communications Studies.
Charging the participants to keep up with the group they formed during their training session, Lasisi said teamwork would aid effective solutions to contemporary challenges.
Earlier, Mrs Blessing Ogwu, National Coordinator, Innovation Development and Effectiveness in Acquisition of Skill (IDEAS) project, said the training addressed and harnessed the skills gap at the post-basic and informal sectors.
“There is growing evidence that training of technical teachers and instructors can improve effectiveness in developing countries in a cost-effective manner and without compromising equity,” Ogwu said.
Also, the Chairman of the IDEAS project, Dr Tony Okwa, enjoined participants to apply the knowledge gained to enrich their lives and build their students to be self-reliant.
NAN reports that outstanding participants were given laptops and books, while certificates were given to each participant. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Remi Koleoso and Moses Solanke
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