The National Council on Skills (NCS) introduces new measures to enhance skills development in Nigeria.
A committee has been formed to coordinate efforts between government agencies and states to address key issues in the skills sector. Led by the Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, the committee will focus on identifying training programs, skills needed in the private sector, and strategies for standardization and certification.
Additionally, a draft bill for the Nigerian Skills Qualifications Framework (NSQF) has been proposed to improve the skills of the workforce and enhance the quality of skilled workers.
Another committee, chaired by the Minister of Women Affairs, Barr. Uju Kennedy-Ohaneye, will review the draft bill.
During the 4th National Council on Skills meeting, Vice President Kashim Shettima emphasized the importance of seizing opportunities in the digital space. He highlighted the potential for Nigerian youths to earn significant income through digital work, urging the committees to work together to address challenges in the skills development sector.
Minister of Education, Prof. Mamman, stressed the need to integrate skills into the education sector for true transformation in Nigeria. He also emphasized the importance of conducting skills surveys and labor market research to inform policy decisions.
The NSQF aims to establish a system for the development and recognition of technical and vocational education and training, as well as skills qualifications. It seeks to align efforts across stakeholders in the skills development sector and promote public-private partnerships for workplace training.