Investing in Human Capital: Ekiti State’s Commitment to Technical and Vocational Education
The Ekiti State Government has reaffirmed its dedication to fostering skills development and vocational education, recognizing their crucial role in youth empowerment and job creation. This commitment stems from the understanding that a skilled workforce is essential for economic growth and societal progress. By prioritizing technical and vocational training, the government aims to equip the youth with practical skills, enabling them to become self-reliant, contribute meaningfully to the economy, and secure a brighter future.
Kayode Babade, Chairman of the Board for Technical and Vocational Education (BTVE), commended the government’s focused attention on the six technical colleges in Ekiti State. He emphasized the growing demand for skilled individuals, stating that the future belongs to those who possess practical expertise. Babade urged parents, residents, and youth to embrace vocational education as a pathway to self-sufficiency and a fulfilling career. He highlighted the significant investments made in upgrading and equipping the technical colleges, particularly the Government Technical College (GTC) in Ado Ekiti, which boasts state-of-the-art facilities considered among the best in Southwest Nigeria.
The BTVE is confident in the capacity of the six technical colleges to deliver high-quality training across 19 trade areas, producing competent skilled labor to meet the state’s workforce needs. This diverse range of vocational programs offers students a wide array of career paths to choose from, ensuring they can acquire skills aligned with their interests and aptitudes. The government’s investment in these institutions reflects a strategic vision for human capital development and economic diversification.
During the matriculation ceremony for 400 new students at GTC Ado Ekiti, Dr. Ben Ajayi, Executive Secretary of BTVE, reiterated the importance of technical and vocational education in national development. He encouraged the incoming students to embrace the opportunity to acquire valuable skills, urging them to focus on their studies, remain disciplined, and shun social vices. He emphasized that technical and vocational skills are not only essential for individual success but also for the overall progress of the nation.
Ayodeji Odetola, Special Assistant to the Governor on Technical and Vocational Education, echoed these sentiments, advising the matriculating students to be diligent, determined, and avoid distractions that could hinder their academic pursuits. He stressed the critical role of technical and vocational education in securing a brighter future for Nigeria. By acquiring practical skills, the youth can become active participants in the nation’s economic transformation, contributing to innovation, productivity, and sustainable development.
Mr. Rufus Jayeola, Principal of GTC Ado Ekiti, expressed gratitude for the government’s responsiveness to the school’s needs. He acknowledged the prompt support provided by the government, which has enabled the institution to effectively deliver quality education and training. To further enhance the learning experience and facilitate practical training, especially in ICT and workshop operations, Jayeola appealed for the connection of the college’s 500 kVA transformer to the national grid. This upgrade would ensure a stable power supply essential for operating modern equipment and conducting practical sessions effectively.
The Ekiti State Government’s commitment to technical and vocational education signals a strategic investment in human capital. By providing the youth with opportunities to acquire marketable skills, the government is not only empowering individuals but also laying the foundation for sustainable economic growth and development. The emphasis on practical training and the provision of modern facilities in technical colleges demonstrate the government’s dedication to preparing the workforce for the challenges and opportunities of the 21st-century economy. This focus on skills development is a crucial step towards building a vibrant and prosperous future for Ekiti State and Nigeria as a whole.
