FUTIA VC Harps on the Importance of Technical & Vocational Education for National Development

The Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology Ikot Abasi (FUTIA), Prof. Leo Daniel, has urged students and young people across the nation to embrace practical and soft skills as outlined in the Technical and Vocational Education Training (TVET) curriculum established by the government to foster national development.

Prof Daniel made this appeal at the Federal Science Technical College, Uyo, during the Closing Ceremony of the GIRLS' (TVET) CAMP 2024, held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, under the theme: "Painting into the Future".

In his goodwill message at the event, the Vice-Chancellor highlighted the ever-evolving nature of the job market, stressing the need for students at all levels of education and the youth to seize the opportunities presented by the Federal Government's Technical and Vocational Education initiatives. He noted that acquiring practical and soft skills is essential for their sustainability and for national development. He commended the Federal Government and the Federal Ministry of Education, led by the Honourable Minister Prof. Tahir Mamman, for their prompt response to these needs.

He further asserted that education is the key to unlocking the potential of the youth, particularly girls, and that Technical and Vocational Education Training (TVET) is vital in preparing them for the workforce, entrepreneurship, leadership and national service. He congratulated both students and teachers for the successful hosting of the inaugural edition of the programme in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

Prof. Daniel also took the opportunity to reaffirm the commitment of the Federal University of Technology Ikot Abasi (FUTIA) to advancing the frontiers of science, technology, engineering, research, and innovation at the tertiary level, in alignment with the government's agenda for the sector.

The Honourable Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, officially closed the event, reiterating the Federal Government's commitment to the development of the education sector.

The programme, organised by the Department of Technology and Science Education within the Federal Ministry of Education and funded by the African Development Bank Group, featured an Art, Technical and Skills Exhibition, showcasing the work of 229 students from 29 Federal Science Technical Colleges across the country.