The Architects Registration Council of Nigeria (ARCON) is embarking on a transformative initiative to operationalize the School of Architectural Technicians in Kuje, Federal Capital Territory. This ambitious project, born from a collaborative effort between ARCON and the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, signifies a significant step towards bolstering technical education and skill development within the Nigerian construction industry. Championed by the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa, the initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda,” which emphasizes youth empowerment, skill acquisition, and professional excellence. The school is poised to become a national hub for innovation and technical expertise in the built environment, contributing significantly to national development.
ARCON’s comprehensive action plan for the school, spearheaded by ARCON President Dipo Ajayi and the council’s management, encompasses a multifaceted approach to training and capacity building. A key component of this plan is the introduction of a three-week summer skill acquisition camp scheduled for August 2025. This fully sponsored program, targeting primary and junior secondary school students, aims to integrate practical skills into early education, fostering a hands-on approach to learning from a young age. By eliminating registration fees, ARCON ensures accessibility for all, promoting inclusivity and equal opportunities in skill development.
Beyond the summer camp, ARCON is launching artisan certification programs in October 2025. These programs will offer hands-on training in various construction trades, including masonry, plumbing, tiling, floor finishes, painting, Plaster of Paris application, and electrical installation. By providing comprehensive training in these essential areas, ARCON seeks to equip individuals with the practical skills necessary to excel in the construction industry, addressing the demand for skilled artisans and promoting high-quality workmanship.
To ensure industry-recognized standards and enhance the value of the training provided, ARCON is actively forging strategic partnerships with prominent organizations. Collaborations with entities such as Dulux Paint, the Association of Tilers of Nigeria, So Tech Africa Limited, the Project Management Institute, Enable Green Consulting, and Costech Computers will facilitate access to industry-standard certifications, ensuring graduates are equipped with credentials that are recognized and valued within the professional landscape. This strategic approach underscores ARCON’s commitment to providing high-quality, relevant training that meets the evolving needs of the construction industry.
ARCON’s commitment to formalizing the school’s operations within the national technical and vocational education system is evident in its pursuit of national accreditation. The council has initiated the registration process with the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) to enlist the Kuje Centre under Nigeria’s Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) scheme. This move will solidify the school’s position within the national education framework, ensuring its programs align with national standards and contribute to the broader TVET ecosystem. This formal recognition will further enhance the credibility and value of the training provided by the school.
Furthermore, ARCON is actively engaging with grassroots organizations to expand the reach and impact of the Kuje Centre. A recent courtesy visit to the newly elected President-General of the National Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) exemplifies this commitment. Discussions focused on potential sponsorships for Local Government staff to participate in training programs at the Kuje Centre, aiming to enhance capacity building at the local government level. In addition, proposals were put forth to integrate architects into the structures of all 774 Local Government Areas across Nigeria. This strategic move seeks to strengthen professional practice nationwide, ensuring architectural expertise is accessible at the grassroots level and contributes to sustainable development within local communities.
In conclusion, the operationalization of the School of Architectural Technicians in Kuje represents a significant milestone in ARCON’s efforts to advance architectural education and skill development in Nigeria. The comprehensive action plan, encompassing summer camps, artisan certification programs, strategic partnerships, national accreditation, and grassroots collaborations, demonstrates ARCON’s commitment to fostering a robust and skilled workforce within the built environment. This initiative aligns with national development goals by empowering youth, promoting professional excellence, and contributing to the growth of a vibrant and sustainable construction industry. By investing in technical education and skill acquisition, ARCON is laying the foundation for a future where architectural expertise and skilled craftsmanship drive innovation and progress in Nigeria’s built environment. This holistic approach to training and capacity building promises to transform the construction landscape, creating opportunities for individuals and contributing to the overall development of the nation.
