Nigeria has taken a significant step toward strengthening its technical and vocational education and training (TVET) system following renewed high-level engagements with Singapore. The move is aimed at modernising skills development and aligning education with emerging labour market needs.
Maruf Olatunji Alausa, Minister of Education, disclosed that he recently received the High Commissioner of Singapore to Nigeria, Mr. Lim Sim Seng, in Abuja to advance the next phase of a bilateral TVET partnership, building on agreements reached during his visit to Singapore last year.
“This engagement demonstrates our commitment to learning from global best practices and adapting them to our national context,” he said.
Under the collaboration, Singapore’s Institute of Technical Education Services (ITEES) will support leadership training for 40 heads of technical institutions and a Train-the-Trainer programme focused on assessment methodology and pedagogy.
“Developing our leaders and trainers is key to ensuring quality education that meets both local and international standards,” Alausa added.
The partnership will also introduce the Global Excellence Model for Skills Training, through which TVET institutions nationwide will be assessed across seven dimensions of excellence to improve quality, relevance, and outcomes. Additionally, both countries will collaborate on a two-year technical diploma in artificial intelligence applications across Nigerian institutions.
“By integrating AI and emerging technologies into our programmes, we are preparing our students for the industries of tomorrow,” the minister said.
Speaking about the broader impact of the partnership, Alausa emphasised that the initiative reflects Nigeria’s vision for a globally competitive skills ecosystem. “Singapore remains a global benchmark in developing a skills-driven economy.
Through this partnership, we are strengthening leadership, pedagogy, and institutional excellence while equipping our workforce for future challenges,” expressing confidence that Nigeria’s TVET system can become a model for Africa.