The need for industry-relevant skills and self-sufficiency among technical teachers and instructors took centre stage at a capacity building workshop organised by the Federal Ministry of Education.
The workshop, aimed at upskilling technical educators across the south-west, featured key stakeholders in education and skill development, and was held under the Innovative Development and Effectiveness in the Acquisition of Skills (IDEAS) project.
The Education Minister, Dr Tunji Alausa, noted that investing in teachers, upgrading the curricula, infrastructural development and collaboration with stakeholders to ensure that technical education meets global standards, are top priorities of the present administration.
Alausa, who was represented by the Director of Technology and Science Education, Dr Taibat Olodo, at the event, restated the ministry’s commitment to providing qualitative education that would meet the demands of the 21st century.
Apart from adopting new teaching methodologies, Alausa added that the training programme would reignite passion for skill development, drive innovation, and prepare students for global competition.
He said: “Over the past three weeks, our focus has been on empowering technical teachers and instructors through a comprehensive train-the-trainers programme. This initiative is designed to enhance their skills, update knowledge, and equip participants with the latest methodologies in technical education.
By ensuring you are well-prepared to guide your students in an ever-evolving job market, we are not only shaping the future of individual careers, but also strengthening the foundation of our education system.
“Let us continue to support and uplift each other, knowing that every effort, no matter how small, plays a role in shaping a brighter future for our nation. Together, let us drive a new era of technical education-one that empowers, innovates, and transforms,” the minister stated.
Oyo State Commissioner for Education, Rahman Abdulkareem, emphasised the need to prioritise technical education as Nigeria moves towards a diversified economy.
He called for a shift from reliance on paper qualifications, urging teachers to embrace skill acquisition and entrepreneurship.
“Enough of paper qualifications. You can change the narrative and become employers of labour. Nigerians are talented; the major issue is the enabling environment, and that is what the Federal Government is working on,” Abdulkareem stated.
Chairman of IDEAS Project Task Team, Dr Tony Okwa, harped on the growing demand for practical skills in the industry, urging participants to apply their training effectively.
He described the programme as a vital step towards becoming better teachers and successful entrepreneurs.
Similarly, South-West Coordinator and IDEAS Task Team Member, Dr Idowu Akinbamijo, said the upskilling initiative was designed to equip teachers with technical expertise that ensures self-sufficiency.
She urged participants to take the training seriously to better groom their students into skilled and competent professionals.
Facilitator of IDEAS project in the zone, Prof. Oyetunde Adeaga, enjoined participants to see the programme as an investment in their future, and not just a tool to improve their teaching skills.
The IDEAS Project is an initiative aimed at enhancing technical education and equipping teachers with relevant skills to drive economic growth beyond the oil sector.
