In a move to enhance local skills and increase national capabilities, the Nigerian government has put a stop to all international training initiatives for students. This decision, revealed by Minister of Education Olatunji Alausa, aims to reallocate resources to support domestic educational programs, research activities, and innovations in the nation’s Higher Education institutions. During a sideline discussion at the 3-day Going Global conference held in Abuja and hosted by the British Council, Alausa reiterated the administration’s dedication to enhancing Nigeria’s educational framework.
The gathering, titled “Building Sustainable and Relevant Tertiary Institutions and Systems in Africa”, brought together education stakeholders, policymakers, and innovators from 20 nations across Africa. Alausa stated that the funds originally set aside for international training will henceforth be directed towards improving Nigerian universities and promoting local research facilities. They could fund the training of 20 individuals locally with the funds they are currently using to train scholars overseas. As a result, they have halted international training for scholars and will shift their focus to local training.
Financial support and hands-on work experience will be provided.
He announced intentions to create simulation laboratories and enhance research capabilities within universities. This initiative aims to strengthen Nigerian academics and equip them with real-world, experiential training across diverse disciplines. He proposed a four-step agenda to promote technical, vocational, and educational training (TVET). This program will motivate young Nigerians to engage in technical studies by providing free tuition, financial support, and hands-on work experience opportunities. Alausa clarified that the program will consist of 80 percent hands-on experience and 20 percent theoretical instruction.
Furthermore, upon finishing their education, graduates will be awarded entrepreneurial grants to assist with their business initiatives. The objective of the government is to equip young individuals with technical expertise and creativity, cultivating a labor force that can stimulate economic development. With the government’s launch of this ambitious initiative, working together with stakeholders such as private industry and global collaborators will be vital to realising these objectives and significantly improving the educational framework in Nigeria.
Africa’s increasing population need will be met with the initiative.
The conference underscored the current collaborations between Nigeria and global organisations. Dr. Richard Montgomery, the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, emphasised the need to develop robust and sustainable higher education institutions to meet the demands of Africa’s increasing population, which is expected to hit 2.5 billion by the year 2050. Montgomery pointed out that current collaborations in education across borders, specifically between Nigeria and the UK, seek to enhance connections among universities in these nations. He stated that these collaborations will enable greater access to financial resources, expertise, and cooperation among Nigerian and UK organisations.
Speaking further, Sir Steve Smith, who is the UK’s champion for international education, emphasised the nation’s approach to building interconnected education networks worldwide. He pointed out the necessity of creating fair collaborations with African universities to enhance research, innovation, and societal change. With this initiative, they aim to strengthen connections among individuals and cultivate a friendly atmosphere for students around the world. In Africa, this involves recognising local perspectives and building collaborations that address community priorities.
Related Article: NEC commends NELFund’s support for students
The choice to emphasise local education illustrates the government’s wider goal of fostering self-sufficiency and sustainable growth. Through support for domestic institutions, Nigeria seeks to develop a strong educational framework that prepares its people with the abilities necessary to tackle national issues and stand out on the global stage. This program aims to diminish the nation’s reliance on overseas education while simultaneously fostering Innovation and boosting Economic Development by cultivating a skilled workforce sourced domestically.