The Federal Government’s newly launched Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programme has recorded over 95,000 applications within just three days of its launch, signaling strong national interest in skills-based education.
Unveiled last Friday in Abuja by the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, the initiative is part of a broader strategy to equip Nigerian youths with practical, industry-relevant skills that will drive the country’s shift towards a knowledge-based economy.
Reacting to the surge in applications, Alausa described the response as overwhelming, stating that the volume of entries shows that Nigerian youths are eager for opportunities to acquire hands-on skills. He also acknowledged technical issues faced by some applicants, particularly delays caused by mismatches between names on Bank Verification Numbers (BVN) and National Identification Numbers (NIN).
To resolve these issues, applicants are advised to ensure that their names match on both records and, if needed, to update their details at the nearest National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) centre.
The TVET initiative offers a fully-funded support package for students enrolled in federal and state technical colleges. This includes free tuition, accommodation, meals, and a monthly stipend of ₦22,500.
Alausa emphasized that the programme is aimed at bridging the significant gap in access to tertiary education in the country. According to him, of the 5.2 million secondary school graduates produced annually, only about 1.8 million secure admission into tertiary institutions, leaving over 3.4 million without immediate prospects for further education.
He described the TVET programme as a transformative effort to attract more young people into technical and vocational fields, equipping them with employable skills and aligning the education system with national economic needs.
In the long term, the Federal Government plans to train over 7 million young Nigerians through the scheme. Graduates will not only receive starter packs to begin their careers but will also have access to low-interest loans through the Bank of Industry, enabling them to start small businesses or enter the workforce with greater confidence.
