FG moves to modernise technical education to reflect industry needs

The federal governorment, through the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, has announced a major revamp of Nigeria’s technical education curriculum to reduce overload, strengthen trade competencies, align with global standards, and prepare young Nigerians for current industrial demands.

In a press release by Boriowo Folasade, the Director of Press and Public Relations of the Ministry of Education, it was announced that “all Federal Science and Technical Colleges (FSTCs) will now operate fully as Federal Technical Colleges starting from the 2025/2026 academic year. 

“Each college will offer a minimum of six and a maximum of ten trade courses, while students will now take between nine and ten subjects. These include one trade course, five or six general subjects such as Mathematics, English Language, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Citizenship and Heritage Studies, two or three trade-related subjects, and one elective.”

A total of 26 trade areas, including Brick Laying; Block Laying and Concreting; Painting, Decoration, and Finishes (Interior Design); Woodwork, Carpentry, and Joinery; Welding & Fabrication; Plumbing and Pipe Fitting; Auto-Electrical Wiring; Computer Hardware & GSM Repair and Maintenance; Automobile Mechanics; Refrigeration & Air-Conditioning Works; Beauty Therapy & Cosmetology; Mechanized Agriculture (Mechanics or Operations/Smart Agriculture); Creative Media (Digital Media Production); Autobody Works; Electronic Systems Maintenance Craft; Catering Craft Practice; Furniture Making & Upholstery; Solar PV Installation and Maintenance; Networking & System Security (Satellite TV Antenna Installation and Maintenance); Fashion Design and Garment Making; Social Media Content Creation and Management; Livestock Farming/Animal Husbandry; Tiling & Cladding (Tiling, Decorative Stonework, or Floor Cover Installation); Fish Farming (Aquaculture); Automobile CNG Conversion and Maintenance; Motorcycle & Tricycle Repairs; and Leather Works, have been streamlined and modernised to reflect industry needs and are critical to Nigeria’s economic growth.

The statement further explained that the reform will enable students to learn relevant trades to meet industrial demands.

“The reforms also aim to focus on students learning trades relevant to industry while strengthening Nigeria’s manufacturing, services, and digital economy. The introduction of Citizenship and Heritage Studies, which combines Nigerian History, Civic Education, and Social Studies, will ensure that students are grounded in national values while pursuing technical skills,” the release added.

Alausa explained that the reform aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which targets driving Nigeria’s economy to one trillion dollars by 2030. 

“The new curriculum will better position students to compete in the global economy, ensuring they are gainfully employed and contribute meaningfully to national development. The Ministry assures schools, parents, and students of full support for a smooth transition. A comprehensive list of the new subjects and trade areas has been attached for guidance,” he emphasised.

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