The Matriculation Lecture titled: “Redirecting the Economic Consciousness of Nigeria Youth: The Skill Alternative was delivered by Tpl. Ajasa Abdulrahman Taiwo Ph.D., the Head Department of Transportation, Planning and Management, Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro, Ogun State.
He identified some of the core challenges the Nigerian youth faces and these include: low skills level, unemployment, poverty, insecurity and stunted economic growth.
Dr. Ajala opined that these problems and challenges which are hindering the progress of the nation can only be tackled by embracing and funding technical education in the country.
Some of the benefits and importance of vocational training and skill development, according to him are: job and wealth creation, self-reliance and self-sufficient, employ-ability, industrial and socio-economic growth, and significant contribution to labour productivity and the national Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
He also charged the government at all levels to promote handwork and crafting in primary schools’ curriculum, improve power supply, embrace career guidance to enlighten parent and students, embrace monetary reward to vocational and technical skilled personnel, and most importantly, the need for Tetfund to extend its service to technical colleges.
