The Nigerian government plans to integrate sewing into state school curriculums to foster skill acquisition and comprehensive development among children. This initiative, spearheaded by the Minister of State for Education, Dr. Suwaiba Ahmad, was announced during her meeting with representatives from the Non-Governmental Association of Literacy Support Services (NOGALSS) and the Ladi Memorial Foundation (LMF) in Abuja. At the meeting, discussions also touched on the National Sewing Competition, aimed at uncovering and nurturing young talents in sewing across the nation.
Dr. Ahmad explained that sewing is a practical skill that can be easily taught, as many schools already have capable teachers. She highlighted that it requires minimal resources and emphasised the importance of extending the initiative to state schools for greater impact, noting that “most of our children come from the states, so collaboration with state stakeholders is crucial.” This addition to the Curriculum could be a meaningful way to equip students with skills that will serve them well throughout their lives.
Bridging the gap between education and practical skills.
Moreover, the integration of skills training into all levels of Education is part of a broader strategy to modernise Nigeria’s education system and better prepare students for evolving economic demands. Dr. Ahmad highlighted that ensuring broad accessibility to such programmes is essential for maximum impact, as this will bridge the gap between traditional education and the practical skills required in the workforce. Drawing inspiration from countries like Singapore, which has successfully leveraged Vocational Training to create a highly skilled and adaptable workforce, Nigeria aims to nurture a generation that is not only employable but also capable of driving national economic resilience.
Furthermore, for NOGALSS National President Noah Emmanuel, practical skills like sewing play a critical role in economic progress. “Skills are vital for economic progress,” he stated, emphasising their importance in shaping self-reliant individuals. Such skills empower young people to establish their own businesses or reduce dependency on external employment, fostering a generation of job creators rather than job seekers. This approach not only benefits individuals but also strengthens the nation’s Economy by building a skilled and entrepreneurial workforce.
Strengthening alliances for well-rounded skill development.
Undeniably, the National Sewing Championship has already begun paving the way for such progress by providing a unique and dynamic platform for students to showcase and develop their skills. As its National Coordinator, Mrs. Rosemary Osikoya, pointed out, the competition is more than just an event: it is an opportunity for students to cultivate “market-ready competencies” that can set them on the path to economic independence. Osikoya urged the Federal Ministry of Education to deepen its involvement. By encouraging creativity through hands-on experience, the competition aims to empower students to envision their future as entrepreneurs and job creators, fostering a generation capable of driving Economic Growth and national progress.
Concerned about disparities in access to home economics education, Mrs. Lami Isah, President of the Home Economics Teachers Association of Nigeria (FCT chapter), warned of the risks posed by neglecting the subject in schools. While some institutions include it, many do not. She stressed the importance of getting the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) to recognise home economics, noting its vital role in equipping students for “youth Empowerment and economic independence.” Isah urged for these gaps to be addressed to prevent a looming skills shortage.
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By weaving practical skills into its educational fabric, Nigeria is preparing its students for a future rooted in Innovation and self-sufficiency. Countries like Singapore have proven that such initiatives not only uplift individuals but also strengthen economies. Beyond creating job seekers, Dr. Ahmad’s vision aims to produce creators and innovators, equipping students with the confidence and expertise to lead in a competitive, rapidly changing world. This approach promises to secure both individual empowerment and national Economic Stability for years to come.