The United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) has urged collaboration with stakeholders in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) to drive Nigeria’s digital transformation.
Mr. Albeit Mendy, Head of the UNESCO Abuja office, made this appeal on Monday during the opening of a two-day validation workshop in Abuja. Represented by Mr. Manish Joshi, Regional Coordinator-BEAR III, UNESCO Abuja, Mendy stated that the workshop aims to develop a national strategy for digitizing TVET in Nigeria.
“This workshop is dedicated to validating the national strategy for the digital transformation of TVET in Nigeria for 2025–2027,” he said. “I am pleased to see policy experts united in advancing TVET and skills development systems to align with global digital transformation imperatives.”
He highlighted that the Pan-African Initiative for Digital Transformation of TVET and Skills Development seeks to ensure that TVET systems across Africa are digitally equipped to empower individuals for today’s evolving digital landscape.
Dr. Adenike Olodo, Director of Technology and Science Education at the Federal Ministry of Education, emphasized that the workshop allows stakeholders to contribute to skills development in Nigeria.
“At the core of the Minister of Education’s vision is a commitment to ensuring that all young people, whether in school or out of school, have access to quality skills acquisition programs,” she stated. “Digital transformation presents an unprecedented opportunity to expand TVET accessibility, improve learning outcomes, and ensure that no youth is left behind.”
Dr. Olagunju Idowu, Secretary-General of the National Commission for UNESCO in Nigeria, commended the workshop’s efforts in fostering digital transformation across the country. Represented by Mrs. Eunice Ayara, Assistant Director of the Nigerian National Commission for UNESCO, he noted that TVET institutions must be utilized as key vehicles for expanding access to skills training and education.
“As the world rapidly evolves with digital transformation, TVET institutions must enhance accessibility, equality, and inclusivity while improving citizens’ employability and competitiveness in the job market,” Olagunju added.
The workshop aligns with Nigeria’s broader education agenda, aiming to empower young people with 21st-century entrepreneurial skills through TVET digitalization.
EduTimes Africa, a product of Education Times Africa, is a magazine publication that aims to lend its support to close the yawning gap in Africa's educational development.