In Delta State, leaders, educators, and policymakers recently gathered for a 2-day workshop to develop a strategic roadmap for technical education. This event took place at the Prof. Chike Edozie Secretariat, Asaba, on February 18, 2025. The goal was to discuss ways to strengthen technical education, making it more effective and accessible while ensuring that it aligns with the M.O.R.E Agenda of the Delta State Government.
This workshop focused on six key areas:
- The current challenges of technical education in Delta State and globally
- How technical education contributes to economic growth
- Gaps in the current technical education system
- Updates needed in the technical education curriculum
- Ways to increase access to technical education
- How to attract more funding and investment
The event was declared open by Hon. Smart Ijeoma Ufoh, Commissioner for Technical Education, who emphasized the importance of skills acquisition in today’s world. He pointed out that Delta State is a pioneer in technical education, and with the right strategies, the state can become a model for the rest of Nigeria and even Africa.
Why Technical Education Matters
Imagine a young boy named Emeka who loves fixing broken electronics at home. However, without a proper technical education system, Emeka’s talent might go unnoticed. If he gets access to well-equipped technical schools, proper training, and mentorship, he could become an expert engineer or entrepreneur.
This is why technical education is important. It provides young people with practical skills that help them secure jobs or start their own businesses. Countries like China, Singapore, and Germany have grown rapidly by investing in technical education, and Delta State wants to follow this path.
Key Discussions from the Workshop
- Solving the Challenges of Technical Education
According to Dr Victor Nkem, the Executive Director of Stratdeck Consulting Ltd, one of the biggest problems is that technical education has not been given enough attention. Many young people believe that only university education is important, but in reality, technical skills are what drive industries and create jobs.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Technical Education, Dr. (Mrs.) Gloria Patrick-Ferife added that many schools lack the necessary equipment and trained instructors. She explained that this roadmap will create a 5-year plan to improve technical education in Delta State.
- Improving Access to Technical Education
Many students who want to learn practical skills do not have access to well-equipped technical schools. Some schools do not have enough modern tools, good teachers, or well-structured learning programs.
The Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mrs Rose Ezewu, stressed that the government is working hard to improve school facilities so that more students can benefit. The goal is to ensure that every student, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to gain technical skills.
- How Technical Education Can Boost the Economy
The Commissioner for Higher Education, Professor Nyerovwo Tonukari, noted that many university graduates struggle to find jobs because they lack practical skills. He suggested that technical training should be included in higher institutions so that graduates can be self-employed instead of waiting for government jobs.
By training more skilled workers, Delta State can attract industries, create jobs, and reduce unemployment.
- Upgrading the Technical Education Curriculum
Technical education needs to keep up with modern advancements. According to Dr Nkem, the state must focus on new areas like electric vehicles, renewable energy, and digital manufacturing.
He explained that in places like Germany and Singapore, students are trained to work with the latest technology. If Delta State does the same, graduates from technical schools will have better opportunities locally and internationally.
- Increasing Funding and Investment in Technical Education
For technical education to be successful, there must be enough funding. The Delta State Government has already invested in building and equipping schools, but more funding is needed to train teachers, buy modern equipment, and provide scholarships for students.
Dr. Nkem explained that partnerships with private companies and international organizations could help bring in more funding. He stressed that investing in technical education is the key to industrial development.
The Role of School Principals in the Roadmap
Several principals from technical colleges attended the workshop and shared their thoughts on improving the system.
Mr. Raphael Ewhe Oghale, Principal of Afagba Model Technical College, said that the training was timely and would help implement the M.O.R.E Agenda in technical education.
Mrs. Roseline Hadome, Principal of Agbor Technical College, emphasized the need for proper teacher training and modern facilities.
Mrs. Elegwe Veronica Adaeze, Principal of Obioroko Technical College, noted that many students want to learn technical skills, but their schools lack the necessary resources.
The principals agreed that this roadmap is a major step toward transforming technical education in Delta State.
Conclusion: A Bright Future for Technical Education
At the end of the workshop, participants were optimistic about the future of technical education in Delta State. The roadmap will serve as a guide to ensure continuous improvement over the next five years (2025-2030).
The vision is clear—to make Delta State a leader in technical education in Nigeria. If the plans are successfully implemented, students like Emeka will have access to quality technical training that will prepare them for a bright and successful future.
This workshop marks the beginning of a new era in technical education, one that will empower young people with the skills needed to build a better Delta State and a stronger Nigeria.
