Abuja, Nigeria – March 2025 – In a landmark move aimed at revitalizing Nigeria’s education system and boosting digital skills, President Bola Tinubu has approved N120 billion to enhance technical education and provide free digital training for millions of Nigerians. The initiative, announced by Minister of Education Tunji Alausa during a press briefing in Abuja, is designed to equip students and artisans with practical skills crucial for job creation and industry development.
Boosting Technical and Vocational Education
The Nigerian government is making a strategic shift toward technical and vocational education (TVET) to ensure students receive hands-on training that aligns with industry needs. This reform introduces a dual training model, combining classroom instruction with real-world industrial exposure, enabling students to develop the expertise required in key economic sectors.
Key highlights of the initiative include:
- Practical workshops and industrial placements for students and artisans.
- Collaboration with industries to design sector-specific training programs.
- Upgrading technical schools with modern equipment and infrastructure.
- Supporting entrepreneurship through skills-based learning.
The technical education reforms are scheduled to begin in May 2025, offering long-term solutions to Nigeria’s growing demand for skilled workers in various fields.
Free Digital Skills Training for 2 Million Nigerians
Alongside technical education, the federal government will launch a six-month free digital skills training program under the Digital Training Academy (DTA) to address the increasing demand for professionals in tech-driven industries. The program will cover vital areas such as:
- Software Development
- Cybersecurity
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Cloud Computing
Participants will receive free internet access and professional certifications from leading global tech firms like Cisco and Google, giving them a competitive edge in the job market.
The digital training program is set to commence by June 2025, providing young professionals and job seekers with the opportunity to secure employment in high-demand industries.
Benefits for Small Businesses and Startups
This large-scale investment is expected to boost small businesses and entrepreneurs, particularly in the technology and manufacturing sectors. The initiative will:
- Provide startups with access to a more skilled workforce.
- Foster innovation through hands-on technical education.
- Bridge the skills gap by equipping artisans and professionals with industry-relevant expertise.
With an influx of trained individuals, businesses will have access to a higher-quality workforce, enhancing productivity and long-term economic growth.
Additional Investments in Education
To further strengthen Nigeria’s educational infrastructure, the government has also committed N40 billion toward completing the long-awaited National Library of Nigeria project. Additional plans include:
- Reconstruction of 195,000 classrooms nationwide.
- Upgrading school facilities to improve the learning environment.
A Step Toward Economic Growth
The approval of N120 billion for technical education and digital training is expected to empower millions of young Nigerians, artisans, and business owners. By investing in skills development, the federal government is creating pathways for innovation, job creation, and sustainable economic growth.
For more updates on these education reforms and skill development programs, stay tuned to official government announcements and training registration details.