Nigeria is launching a major education shift to tackle youth unemployment. Federal Science and Technical Colleges (FSTC) will become full Federal Technical Colleges (FTC), phasing out science programs entirely for new students. According to NBTE Executive Secretary Prof. Idris Bugaje, this urgent reform targets Nigeria’s critical skills gap.
The September Transformation
Starting this admission cycle:
- ✅ New students will enroll exclusively in technical programs
- ❌ Science-based admissions end immediately
- ⏳ Existing science students complete studies
Bugaje explained: “Before, students preferred sciences while technical training was ignored. This smart intervention reverses that trend.”
Why This Radical Change?
Simply put, Nigeria faces a technical education crisis:
- ⚠️ Only 129 technical colleges nationwide
- ⚖️ Versus 15,000+ conventional secondary schools
- 🎯 Polytechnics admit mostly general graduates due to shortages
Crucially, President Tinubu approved new infrastructure and equipment to make technical paths attractive. “We’re investing to position TVET as a premier choice,” Bugaje emphasized.
States Urged to Follow Suit
Next, Bugaje challenged state governments: “Convert conventional schools to technical colleges – they’re the proper feeders for polytechnics.” This expansion aims to create a skilled talent pipeline for industries.
Higher Education Shake-up Next
Meanwhile, Nigeria studies China’s 2017 move converting 600+ universities to polytechnics/skill centers. Bugaje warned: “Turning polytechnics into universities harms technical growth. If converted, they must remain TVET-focused institutions.”
The Big Goal: Jobs & Economic Revival
Ultimately, this overhaul targets:
- 👷♂️ Youth employment through hands-on skills
- 💡 Boosting entrepreneurship and innovation
- 🌍 Aligning with global technical education standards
What This Means for Nigeria:
“This policy shift prepares youth for a fast-evolving economy. We’re engineering a TVET renaissance.” – Prof. Bugaje
Your Turn:
👉 Will this solve Nigeria’s skills gap?
👉 Should your state convert more schools?
Share your perspective below!
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