By Ola Sharon
Copyright tribuneonlineng
The National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB) has started reviewing and validating 26 trade syllabi for technical colleges across the country.
Dr Mohammed Mohammed, Registrar of NABTEB, said at the opening of the five-day exercise in Abuja on Monday that the review was aimed at updating technical education to meet current global standards.
He explained that the revised syllabi would equip students with skills relevant to today’s economy. The 26 trades include both new technologies and traditional fields such as robotics, coding, machine learning, automotive mechatronics, smart agriculture, electrical and solar PV installations, and cinematography.
“This comprehensive selection reflects our understanding that Nigeria’s economic future depends on a skilled workforce capable of operating across traditional and emerging sectors.
“The inclusion of environmentally conscious programmes such as Solar PV installations and Smart Agriculture demonstrates our commitment to sustainable development,” he said.
Mohammed praised the partnership between NABTEB and the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), saying it showed the importance of inter-agency cooperation in developing technical and vocational education.
He also noted the role of industry stakeholders in shaping the new curricula to meet labour market needs, urging them to continue offering internships, mentorship, and workplace learning.
He added that NABTEB would support implementation through teacher training, assessment tools, and strict quality assurance.
Prof. Idris Bugaje, Executive Secretary of NBTE, said the reviewed syllabi must be properly implemented in technical colleges to strengthen vocational education. Bugaje, represented by Hajia Hajara Abdulkadri, a director in the agency, described the review as a key step toward giving young Nigerians the skills required for a changing economy.
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A representative of the principals of Federal Technical Colleges (FTC), Frank Omale, also described the review as a milestone that would align technical education with Nigeria’s development goals. Omale, who is principal of FTC, Orozo, pledged that principals would support its implementation and continue guiding students to become skilled and responsible citizens.
Dr Muyibat Olodu, Director of Technology and Science Education at the Federal Ministry of Education, represented by Mr Kola Osundeyi, said the review would improve the quality of technical education to match industry demands and international standards. She urged stakeholders to make sure the updated syllabi included practical training, new technologies, and innovative teaching methods.
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