Prioritizing Skills Development in Nigeria’s Education System
Saleh Shehu Ashaka
The recent news about the Dangote refinery employing 11,000 skilled workers, most of whom are of Indian nationality, raises concerns about the state of unemployment and skills development in Nigeria. It highlights a significant loss to our nation, as our youths remain unemployed due to a lack of relevant skills. This situation calls for immediate action from all stakeholders to prioritize skills development in our curriculum over mere academic qualifications.
In today’s competitive job market, possessing a degree alone is no longer sufficient to secure employment or contribute meaningfully to the economy. While academic qualifications have their merits, they often create an illusion of preparedness that fails to meet the demands of the rapidly evolving job market. The reality is that our youths need practical skills and hands-on experience to be marketable and contribute effectively to industries such as the booming refinery sector.
To address this problem, it is imperative that we prioritize skills development in our education system. Our curriculum should aim to equip students with practical skills, technical know-how, and real-world experiences that align with the needs of industries and employers. It is time to shift our focus from rote learning and exam-driven education to creating an environment that fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, creativity, and innovation.
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Stakeholders at various levels must collaborate to reorient our educational infrastructure towards skills development. The government should allocate more resources to vocational training centers, establish partnerships with industries for apprenticeship programs, and introduce skill-based certifications that complement academic degrees. The private sector can play a crucial role by investing in skill-building initiatives and offering internships, on-the-job training, and mentorship opportunities.
n addition to systemic changes, we must also address the mindset of students, parents, and educators. There is a need to change the narrative that having a degree automatically guarantees success. We must encourage young people to embrace technical skills, vocational training, and entrepreneurship as viable and respected career paths. Parents and educators should provide guidance and support towards exploring various pathways that prioritize skills development alongside academic achievements.
The employment of 11,000 skilled workers, primarily of Indian nationality, at the Dangote refinery underscores the urgent need for Nigeria to prioritize skills development in our education system. It serves as a wake-up call for all stakeholders to reevaluate our approach towards education and empower our youth with practical skills that align with industry demands. By doing so, we can bridge the gap between unemployment and skills shortages, unlock the potential of our youth, and build a prosperous future for Nigeria. It is time to shift our focus from paper qualifications to equipping our youth with the skills they need to succeed in the rapidly evolving job market.
