Experts advocate vocational training, PPP to boost economy

EXPERTS have advocated the use of vocational education and public-private partnerships to boost Nigeria’s economy.

      At the 11th German-Nigerian Business Forum (GNBF) which held in Lagos recently, Group Executive Director at TGI Group,

Dr. Remi Oni, highlighted the importance of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) for Nigeria’s industrial growth, saying that while Nigeria has improved its infrastructure, a shortage of skilled professionals remains challenging.

    “Germany’s economic miracle, South Korea’s industrial boom, and Japan’s rapid growth can all be traced back to a strong emphasis on technical and vocational education.

These countries have consistently invested in developing a skilled workforce, which has been the bedrock of their economic achievements. It is this workforce that continues to create, innovate, and maintain critical infrastructure that fuels sustainable growth. Hospitals, railways, and factories need capable technicians and specialists to keep things running and expanding,” he said.

In a panel discussion on vocational education and digital skills, TGI Group’s Head of Corporate Communication, Rafiat Gawat, said that aligning skills programmes with industry needs is key to creating a more robust workforce and encouraging breaking down the stigma around polytechnic education.

“We need to stop making polytechnic education or skills acquisition seem like a lesser choice. It should be valued alongside degree education. When students graduate with hands-on experience, they are better equipped for the job market,” Gawat said. The event emphasised the growing economic cooperation between the two nations, with over 90 German companies operating in Nigeria.