The Delta State Commissioner for Technical Education, Hon. Smart Ijeoma Ufoh, welcomed members of the National Board of Technical Education (NBTE) to Delta State on Monday, November 25, 2024. The NBTE team, led by Engr. Bashir Datti, Head of the Technical Trade Division, arrived to begin the accreditation of nine technical colleges across the state.
The accreditation process, conducted every five years, is aimed at assessing the state of facilities, tools, and human resources in technical colleges. This ensures the colleges meet the required standards for technical education. The team evaluates the equipment and tools, determines whether upgrades are needed, and reviews the qualifications of teachers and staff to ensure they possess the necessary expertise to operate and teach with the available resources.
Hon. Ufoh assured that all technical colleges in the state are prepared for the accreditation. “Before their arrival, I personally visited the schools to ensure the equipment was serviced, the students were aligned with our objectives, and the teachers were qualified to impart knowledge. This process will ensure that both the teachers and colleges meet the standards required for licensing and for students to sit for the NBTC examination,” he stated.
Engr. Bashir Datti highlighted the NBTE team’s goals during the visit:
- Facilities Assessment: Inspection of classrooms, laboratories, studios, workshops, and offices to ensure adequacy and functionality.
- Human Resources Evaluation: Review of both core and general teaching staff to confirm their qualifications and adequacy.
- Tools and Equipment Inspection: Examination of the tools’ availability, functionality, and condition to ensure they meet the requirements for quality technical education.
Engr. Datti noted that the team would accredit six existing colleges and inspect resources at three newly established ones to determine their readiness for teaching and learning activities.
Engr. Datti praised Delta State for creating a dedicated ministry for technical education. He emphasized the importance of skill development in driving economic growth and commended the state for its efforts in improving technical education. He also announced plans to introduce dual certification in technical colleges, combining the traditional NTCA certification with the National Skills Qualification (NSQ).
The NSQ certification, based on competency in specific skills, is globally recognized and enables individuals to demonstrate their expertise in trades like welding, electrical installation, web design, agriculture, and more. Engr. Datti revealed that some technical colleges in Nigeria have already started issuing NSQ certificates and urged Delta State to follow suit.
The accreditation and resource inspections aim to strengthen Delta State’s technical education system, ensuring students and teachers are well-equipped for global competitiveness. With the introduction of the NSQ certification, the state is set to produce a skilled workforce capable of addressing the nation’s economic and technological needs.
Hon. Ufoh reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting technical education and urged stakeholders to embrace the opportunities presented by the NBTE accreditation process.
