BusinessDay
Favour Okpale
June 3, 2025
Olatunji Alausa, the minister of Education
The Federal Government’s newly launched Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) initiative has received a massive response, with over 95,000 applications submitted within just three days of its official unveiling.
The programme, which was formally launched by Tunji Alausa, Minister of Education, last Friday in Abuja, is a key component of the government’s strategy to equip Nigerian youths with practical, industry-relevant skills aimed at accelerating the nation’s transition to a knowledge-based economy.
“The Ministry of Education is thrilled by the overwhelming response to the TVET Initiative,” Alausa said.
“Over 95,000 applications have already been submitted, an incredible show of interest in skills development across Nigeria.”
The Ministry of Education said it has also responded to public feedback and is working swiftly to resolve reported issues encountered during the application process. One major concern identified is the delay caused by mismatches between names on applicants’ Bank Verification Numbers (BVN) and National Identification Numbers (NIN).
Applicants are urged to ensure that their names match on both records and are encouraged to visit the nearest National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) centre to correct any discrepancies.
“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,” The minister disclosed this via his official X account.
The initiative offers a comprehensive support package for students enrolled in federal and state technical colleges. This includes free tuition, accommodation, feeding, and a monthly stipend of ₦22,500.
Alausa noted that the programme is designed to close the significant gap in access to tertiary education in Nigeria.
He highlighted that out of the 5.2 million students who graduate from secondary school each year, only about 1.8 million gain admission into tertiary institutions, leaving over 3.4 million without immediate options for further education.
“The TVET programme is a transformative intervention designed to attract more young people to technical and vocational education, provide them with skills for employability, and reposition the education system to meet the needs of the Nigerian economy,” the Minister said.
As part of its long-term goals, the Federal Government aims to train over 7 million youths in a wide range of skills and talents. Graduates of the programme will not only receive starter packs to kick-start their careers but also have access to single-digit interest loans, made possible through a partnership with the Bank of Industry (BOI). This move is expected to enable many young Nigerians to launch small businesses or enter the job market with confidence.
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