Acquiring vocational skills alongside formal education is key

Technical and vocational education is fast becoming important in today’s world. Practical skills are now very much in high demand.

While university education remains a valuable path to success, it has been proven that it’s no longer the only route to building a meaningful career, as employers now look beyond academic qualifications. They place more value on workers who possess practical skills and can contribute technologically in the workplace.

It is no longer news that in Nigeria, youths graduate every year but struggle to find employments. According to research, one of the reasons for this challenge is the gap between classroom knowledge and practical experience. Many have certificates but lack the technical skills required by industries.

As result, this has made technical and vocational education more relevant than ever before. Hence, the National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB) has continued to play a vital role in addressing this challenge. Through its technical and vocational certification programmes, the board equips learners with practical knowledge in various trades and professions.

These include: electrical installation, plumbing, welding, catering, carpentry, information technology, fashion design and many other skills that are valuable in today’s economy. With these skills, individuals can become self-employed, secure decent jobs or even establish businesses that create employment opportunities for others.

READ ALSO: Acquire vocational skills to be self reliant, Oyo agency charges youths, graduates

However, with this effort ongoing, technical education is still viewed by many people as an option for those who could not gain admission into universities. This perception needs to change!

Technical and vocational education should be recognised as an important part of national development because it produces skilled professionals who contribute directly to the economy. Countries that have achieved significant industrial growth have invested heavily in vocational education and skills development.

On this premise, I want to urge our government, schools, parents and private organisations to work together to promote and encourage technical education and motivate more young people to acquire vocational skills alongside formal education.

•Peace Adepoju, a student of Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo, Oyo State.