The Ekiti State Government has restated its dedication to advancing skills acquisition and vocational education as a key strategy for youth empowerment and job creation.
Chairman of the Board for Technical and Vocational Education (BTVE), Kayode Babade, praised the government’s focus on the state’s six technical colleges, urging parents, residents, and youths to embrace vocational training for self-reliance.
Speaking on Saturday at the matriculation ceremony for 400 new students at Government Technical College (GTC), Ado Ekiti, Babade emphasized the growing demand for technical skills. “The present and the future belong to men and women of skills,” he stated, encouraging more students to enroll in vocational programs.
He highlighted the well-equipped facilities available in the state’s technical colleges, noting that GTC Ado Ekiti is widely regarded as having the best technical education infrastructure in Southwest Nigeria.
Echoing this sentiment, the Executive Secretary of BTVE, Dr. Ben Ajayi, expressed confidence in the ability of the six technical colleges to produce skilled professionals across the 19 trade areas currently offered.
Also speaking at the event, the Special Assistant to the Governor on Technical and Vocational Education, Ayodeji Odetola, advised the new students to remain focused, avoid social vices, and take advantage of the opportunities in technical education. “The future of our nation depends on technical and vocational skills,” he said, emphasizing the need to promote skill-based education.
Meanwhile, the principal of GTC Ado Ekiti, Mr. Rufus Jayeola, commended the state government for its prompt response to the institution’s needs. However, he appealed for the connection of the college’s 500 kVA transformer to the national grid to enhance ICT and workshop practical training for students.
With continued government support and increased awareness, stakeholders believe vocational education will play a vital role in shaping a self-sufficient and skilled workforce in Ekiti State.
