Federal Government Abolishes Fees, Offers Monthly Stipend to Students in Technical Colleges
In a bold new move to reshape Nigeria’s education landscape, the Federal Government has abolished school fees for students in public technical colleges nationwide—and that’s just the beginning.
Students will now receive free tuition, free accommodation, free meals, and a monthly stipend of ₦22,500, according to the Minister of State for Education, Dr. Olatunji Alausa.
This sweeping policy was unveiled during the launch of a new Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) roadmap—a nationwide effort aimed at equipping millions of young Nigerians with market-ready skills.
Why This Matters: A New Direction for Nigerian Education
For decades, Nigerian students have graduated with certificates but few employable skills. This new initiative aims to close that gap. With over 70% of Nigeria’s population under 30, the government says it’s time to shift focus from paper qualifications to practical training.
The goal is ambitious: Train five million Nigerians in high-demand skills by 2030.
From carpentry and plumbing to tech repair and manufacturing, the TVET program will empower students to build careers with their hands—and not just their hopes.
Not Just Schooling—Skills That Pay
“This is about preparing our youth for the real world,” Dr. Alausa said during the launch. “We’re not just offering education; we’re offering opportunities.”
The program aligns with a national skills qualification framework to ensure training meets the needs of today’s job market.
To strengthen the system:
- Over 3,600 teachers and trainers have already been retrained.
- Both public and private training centres are being accredited.
- Students will have access to small business loans, startup grants, and vocational toolkits upon graduation.
Changing the Narrative Around Technical Education
For years, technical and vocational education has been seen as a “second choice” in Nigeria’s academic culture. That perception is now under fire.
Dr. Alausa made it clear: “TVET is not a backup plan—it’s a first-class path to success.”
The government is urging parents, employers, and students alike to rethink what success looks like. In a rapidly changing economy, skilled hands are just as valuable as university degrees—if not more.
What Happens Next?
The Ministry of Education is partnering with:
- State governments
- Industry leaders
- Global education partners
Together, they plan to scale up technical education in every region of the country.
Registration for the program will soon be available through the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) portal.
Final Word: A Nation Built by Skilled Youth
With unemployment still a major challenge, this initiative could be a turning point—if properly implemented. But it’s not just up to the government.
As Dr. Alausa put it: “We’re building a system that helps our youth turn talent into tools for success.”
For Nigeria’s next generation, this may be more than an education reform. It may be the chance to build a future—with skill, with purpose, and with pride.
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