The Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TiVET) programme has received an overwhelming response. In just three days after its official launch last week, over 95,000 applications were received nationwide.
The minister of education, Dr Maruf Alausa, disclosed this via his official X (formerly Twitter) account.
LEADERSHIP reports that the federal government launched the reformed Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TiVET) initiative on May 29, 2025, to equip millions of young Nigerians with practical, industry-relevant skills to drive national development.
The initiative is structured around three flagship programmes: Master6 (a six-month programme open to all NIN holders), Master12 (a one-year programme also open to all NIN holders), and the Technical College Track (a three-year programme designed for individuals aged 15 to 20).
Each programme consists of 80% practical and 20% theoretical training. Training is scheduled to begin in August 2025 across Vocational Enterprise Institutes (VEIs), Skills Training Centres (STCs), and Federal and State Technical Colleges.
A total of 25 skill areas will be offered nationwide. Key components of the initiative include standardised skills certification (NSQ) through NABTEB and sectoral awarding bodies, free education at public technical schools, monthly stipends of N22,500 for trainees, and access to starter packs and low-interest loans for entrepreneurship.
The goal is to train five million skilled youths by 2030.
Speaking on the development, Dr Alausa expressed delight at the overwhelming response to the initiative. “Over 95,000 applications have already been submitted, an incredible show of interest in skills development across Nigeria. We’ve received your feedback and are working quickly to resolve any issues.
“One key area to note: many applications are delayed due to mismatches between names on BVN and NIN records. To ensure your application goes through smoothly, please make sure the names on both your BVN and NIN match exactly. If needed, you can update your details at your nearest NIMC centre,” he said.
He added that applicants can contact the initiative’s official social media handles: Twitter, @tvetinitiative, Facebook, TiVET Initiative, and Instagram, @tvetinitiative, for questions or updates.
