By Chika Nwachukwu
Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa has called on polytechnics and colleges of education to align with industries to address the nation’s economic demand.
The minister, who stated this during a meeting with provosts and rectors of federal institutions, emphasised the need for a transformative approach to the country’s educational system.
He highlighted the ministry’s six-point agenda, focusing on revitalising Technical and Vocational Education and Training, TVET, and enhancing quality assurance.
Alausa stressed the importance of aligning academic programmes with industry demands, preparing students for careers in high-impact sectors like ICT, carpentry and advanced manufacturing.
He also emphasised the need for strategic partnerships with private sector players to provide funding, resources and internship opportunities.
To achieve these goals, Dr Alausa tasked the institutions to focus on five key areas which include developing skill-based curricula, collaborating with industries and tailoring programmes to meet local economic and social needs.
Others include integrating agricultural education, establishing farms and agritech centers and promoting food production through partnerships with local communities.
He also advocated establishing endowment funds, mobilising alumni and engaging in public-private-partnerships to support scholarships, infrastructural development and research.
He also spoke about the need for regular training, investing in digital tools and developing leadership programmes to enhance technical and pedagogical skills.
He also urged for the establishment of centers of excellence, partnering industries and focusing research on national priorities like renewable energy and digital innovation.
Alausa assured the institutions of the ministry’s commitment to support their efforts, recognising the challenges they face and addressing barriers to progress.
He emphasised the importance of synergy between the ministry, governing councils and institutional leadership to transform Nigeria’s educational system and drive national development.
