The Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) plans to launch a Learn to Work program on Nigerian campuses with industry partners, offering students opportunities for Outsourcing employment. During a meeting with the leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) in Abuja, the Executive Secretary of TETFund, Sonny Echono, announced that a notable program is being introduced to benefit students on campus. He believes the program will allow students to explore diverse academic subjects, receive training in Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) and technology, and intern at international companies.
They will be able to gain outsourcing jobs and earn a basic income while continuing their education. The upcoming launch of this program on a national level will notably benefit students by supporting institutions in creating conducive learning environments. Students who choose to participate will have access to these resources. Also, many students from various countries like India, China, Vietnam, and Cambodia already benefited from the program. It was noted that 24 million Indian students are earning these funds while in school.
African students will be empowered with skills and job opportunities.
Learn to Work aims to empower students in the country by equipping them with the skills needed to secure employment and earn a sustainable income even upon graduation. He mentioned that the initiative is already being implemented in various African countries such as Algeria, Rwanda, Tanzania, Morocco, Egypt, and South Africa. Moreso, the head of TETFund pointed out that the government introduced the Student Loan program in response to the belief that every student in the country should have the opportunity to complete their education, regardless of their parent’s financial situation.
He mentioned that after implementing the learn-to-work program, the partners would go to schools and conduct aptitude assessments on students to choose candidates who fulfil the requirements for participation in the training program. He further stated that the training program covers more than 40 different fields, with a Curriculum tailored to the specific needs of each industry. He also mentioned that many companies worldwide are currently facing challenges regarding recruitment. He added that the initiative will reach beyond Abuja and Lagos, expanding to include all universities and colleges nationwide.
More global opportunities will be opened to students.
Furthermore, the proposed program is hoped to be a game-changer for students in the country, offering them a pathway to practical skills and real-world experience. By collaborating with industry partners, TETFund aims to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and the demands of the job market, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped to tackle the challenges of the modern workforce. This initiative is expected to enhance employability and encourage a Culture of continuous learning and Innovation among students.
This program’s emphasis on ICT and Technology training aligns with global trends, preparing the students for a future where Digital Literacy is paramount. By facilitating training with international companies, TETFund opens doors to global opportunities, allowing students to gain valuable insights and build networks that could be beneficial throughout their careers. This forward-thinking approach underscores the importance of adaptability and lifelong learning in today’s rapidly evolving job market, setting a new standard for educational initiatives nationwide.
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On the other hand, Comrade Lucky Emonefe, the National President of the National Association of Nigerian Students, acknowledged President Bola Tinubu’s message, expressing his commitment to education. As a result, the association has decided against participating in the planned national protest. Emonefe noted that the government’s dedication to maintaining a smooth academic schedule was demonstrated through its discussions with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), resulting in greater stability within the institutions over the past year in the country.