NBTE Boss: Over 1.3 Million Youths Apply for TVET Skills Training
The National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) has revealed that more than 1.3 million Nigerian youths have applied to participate in its Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) skills empowerment programme.
According to the Executive Secretary of NBTE, Prof. Idris Muhammad Bugaje, the massive turnout reflects the growing interest of Nigerian youths in acquiring practical, employable skills that can boost self-reliance and reduce unemployment across the country.
Empowering Nigerian Youths Through Skills
Prof. Bugaje explained that the NBTE is committed to expanding the reach of TVET institutions across all states, ensuring that young people have access to modern tools, digital training, and industry-based learning.
He emphasized that the future of Nigeria’s economy depends on skills, not certificates, and urged both government and private sector players to invest more in technical and vocational education.
“Our target is to build a new generation of skilled Nigerians who can create jobs, rather than depend on them,” Bugaje stated.
Partnerships and Digital Transformation
The NBTE boss also highlighted the agency’s partnership with local and international organizations, including the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) and UNESCO, to upgrade training facilities and introduce digital skills programs.
The ongoing reform also includes the introduction of the National Skills Qualifications Framework (NSQF), which recognizes informal skills and allows artisans to gain certification for their experience.
A Step Toward Reducing Unemployment
Experts believe that the surge in TVET applications signals a positive shift in the mindset of Nigerian youths—from seeking white-collar jobs to pursuing skill-based careers in fields like automobile technology, ICT, fashion design, construction, welding, and renewable energy.
With the high rate of unemployment, the NBTE initiative could become a key driver in achieving sustainable economic development and inclusive growth in Nigeria.
