By Babatunde Ayedoju
As part of its commitment to strengthening Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), the Ondo State Government, through the Board for Adult, Technical and Vocational Education (BATVE), has called on traditional rulers to act as a bridge between the government and youths to improve participation in vocational education and hands-on learning of modern digital skills.
This call was made through the Senior Special Assistant (SSA ) to the Governor on Adult, Technical and Vocational Education, Tayo Oluyi, during the monthly meeting with Obas in Council from the 18 Local Government areas, at the Ondo State Obas’ Council Secretariat in Akure.
Oluyi emphasised that the Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, since assuming office, has been making efforts to ensure that the TVET programme is improved upon by facilitating building renovations, providing modern-day equipment and granting the approval of a revised curriculum to enhance learners’ skills necessary to connect them with entrepreneurial opportunities and, more significantly, ensure they fit into the industrial revolution drive of the state.
The SSA stated that the purpose of the visit was to inform the traditional rulers about the Governor’s efforts at improving TVET and the significance of the programme, so that more youths can embrace the initiative laid down by the government for self-reliance.
Emphasising the role of traditional rulers, he mentioned that some Southwest states have successfully implemented TVET programmes, a feat which, according to findings, was made possible through partnerships with royal fathers.
He stressed that their influence goes a long way in shaping enrollment by helping to erase societal stigma, advocating skills, influencing parental choices and mobilising resources.
He added that though the role of tertiary institutions cannot be undermined, the time is now for youths in the state to urgently take up the challenge of moving beyond theories obtained within the four walls of the classroom and embrace practical solutions that would help drive economic growth and eradicate poverty.
The SSA hinted that admissions are ongoing at the technical colleges which are currently in five locations in the state including Oka-Akoko, Owo, Idanre, Oke-Igbo and Okitipupa.
He also mentioned that the state operates skill acquisition centres in 23 locations across the 18 Local Government Areas.
Oluyi further explained that the mandatory duration for the technical college is three years and six months for skills acquisition programme, after which an individual may proceed to enroll in any higher institution of learning, noting that the certification affords them with an additional value of being able to offer vocational skill services where it may be needed and earn a living.
“The Governor cannot do it alone; with your support, the state can attract corporate investors locally and internationally in exchange for Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and other value-adding projects that would enhance the vocational centres” he said.
In his response, the Chairman of the Council of Obas’, the Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Ogunoye III, appreciated the SSA for his enthusiasm in driving the vision of the Governor, even as he urged the members of his Council to jointly seek ways to partner with the government in their respective communities towards achieving sustainable development for the benefit of all.
In attendance were the Permanent Secretary of the Board, Mr. Olusiji Olatunji; Director, Finance and Administration, Mrs Gbemisola Omopariola; Mrs Oluwakemi Adumashi; and other members of the Council of Obas’ across the 18 Local Government Areas.