Untapped Potential Due to Lack of Vocational Training – NACETEM D-G

The National Centre for Technology Management (NACETEM) on Wednesday highlighted the country’s significant untapped potential due to its reliance on traditional education rather than vocational training.

Director-General Dr. Olusola Odusanya made these remarks during a panel discussion at the Nigeria-EU Innovation Days.

He emphasized that vocational education could generate 70% of job creation and entrepreneurial opportunities.

The two-day event, organized by the European Union (EU) and the Federal Government of Nigeria, brought together representatives from Nigeria, Africa, and Europe’s research and innovation ecosystems to discuss opportunities in e-health, Agritech, and Industry 4.0.

Odusanya called for a complete overhaul of Nigeria’s education sector to align it with societal needs and trends, arguing that current curricula are not relevant to socio-economic development.

“Draw a large number of youths into vocational education because it promotes innovation and digital skill acquisition.

“What we teach in schools is not what is needed in the society. Let’s look at trends and ensure they relate to us. Look at our education, it seems not to be so relevant to our socio-economic development.’’ he said.

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He stressed that vocational training promotes innovation and digital skills, crucial for addressing the gap left by the current emphasis on university education.

Additionally, Dr. Audu Grema from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation stressed the importance of agricultural research, noting the foundation’s commitment to preventing research from being stifled in Nigeria.

He advocated for the commercialization of research results through private-sector partnerships.

The Nigeria-EU Innovation Days event aims to ignite a scientific revolution by combining Africa’s ingenuity with Europe’s technological prowess.