The Ondo State Government, has called on traditional rulers to act as a bridge between the government and youths to read more Ondo Govt tasks monarchs to drive youths into technical, vocational skills
The Ondo State Government, has called on traditional rulers to act as a bridge between the government and youths to improve participation in vocational education and hands-on learning of modern digital skills towards strengthening technical and vocational education and training in the state.
Tayo Oluyi, Senior Special Assistant to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa on Adult, Technical and Vocational Education, made the call on Saturday in Akure during the monthly meeting with Obas’ in Council from the 18 Local Government Areas.
According to Oluyi, Governor Aiyedatiwa, since he assumed office, has been making efforts to ensure the TVET programme is improved by facilitating building renovations, providing modern-day equipment and granting the approval of a revised curriculum to enhance learners’ skills necessary to connect them with entrepreneurial opportunities and more significantly, ensure they fit into the industrial revolution drive of the State.
The SSA stated that the purpose of the visit was to inform the traditional rulers about the governor’s efforts at improving TVET and the significance of the program so that more youths can embrace the initiative laid down by the government for self-reliance.
Read also: Insecurity and the states’ spending spree!
Emphasising the role of traditional rulers, he mentioned that some Southwest states have successful TVET programmes, a feat which according to findings was made possible through partnerships with Royal Fathers. He stressed that their influence goes a long way in shaping enrollment by aiding to erase societal stigma, advocating skills, influencing parental choices and mobilising resources.
He added that though the role of tertiary institutions cannot be undermined, the time is now for youths in the State to urgently take up the challenge of moving beyond theories obtained within the four walls of the classroom and embrace practical solutions that would help drive economic growth and eradicate poverty.
The SSA hinted that admissions are ongoing at the Technical Colleges which are currently in five locations in the State, as follows: Oka-Akoko, Owo, Idanre, Oke-Igbo and Okitipupa. He also mentioned that the State operates Skill Acquisition centres in 23 locations across the 18 Local Government Areas.
Oluyi further explained that the mandatory duration for the Technical College is 3 years and 3-6 months for the skills acquisition programme, after which an individual may proceed to enroll in any higher institution of learning, noting that the certification affords them with an additional value of being able to offer vocational skill services where it may be needed and earn a living.
“The Governor cannot do it alone; with your support, the state can attract corporate investors locally and internationally in exchange for Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and other value-adding projects that would enhance the vocational centres,” he said.
In his response, the Chairman of the Council of Obas’, the Olowo of Owo, Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye, appreciated the SSA for Adult, Technical and Vocational Education for his enthusiasm in driving the vision of the Governor, even as he urged the members of his Council to jointly seek ways to partner with the government in their respective communities towards achieving sustainable development for the benefit of all.
Join BusinessDay whatsapp Channel, to stay up to date
Open In Whatsapp
