The federal government officially unveiled the National Policy on Skills Development yesterday, marking a significant milestone in Nigeria’s journey toward building a competitive and skilled workforce.
The minister of education, Dr Maruf Olatunji Alausa, represented by his senior special assistant (SSA), Dr Ismaila Adiatu, Dr Alausa emphasized that the policy reflects the government’s commitment to empowering citizens with practical and relevant skills to meet the demands of the labour market.
“For many years, we have struggled with unemployment and underemployment, largely due to a mismatch between graduates’ skills and labour market requirements. This policy directly addresses these challenges. Skills development is not just an educational imperative but a fundamental economic and social necessity,” Dr. Alausa stated.
The president National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS), Dr Samira Jibir participated in the unveiling ceremony, yesterday in Abuja.
Jibrin emphasised that NAPPS Nigeria under her leadership will be working with various stakeholders in the implementation team.
“Our education system must go beyond traditional learning. It must foster practical, entrepreneurial, digital, and vocational skills to meet the demands of a dynamic job market,” she stated.
She further highlighted the need to bridge the gap between graduates’ skills and employer needs, warning that this mismatch hinders individual career growth and national productivity.
“As Nigeria embarks on this transformative journey, stakeholders across government, private sector, and development organizations are urged to collaborate in ensuring the successful implementation of the National Policy on Skills Development,” she added.
