Minister of Education, Maruf Tunji Alausa, says the administration of President Bola Tinubu is intensifying efforts to use non-formal education and vocational training to tackle unemployment and empower millions of young Nigerians. According to the minister, the government is creating opportunities for out-of-school children and students in formal institutions to gain practical and entrepreneurial skills that can help them become self-reliant.
A statement by the minister’s Special Adviser on Media and Communications, Ikharo Attah, said Alausa spoke during a special plenary session at the ongoing Education World Forum in London. The session was moderated by Prince Edward and featured education leaders from Canada and Brazil, alongside youth representative Andrea Chakma.
Speaking at the forum, Alausa said Nigeria’s growing number of out-of-school children has made it necessary for the government to adopt faster and more flexible learning approaches. He explained that the Federal Government introduced an Accelerated Basic Education Programme tailored for children outside the conventional school system, allowing them to catch up academically while also learning practical life skills.
The minister said the government is also placing strong emphasis on Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), describing it as a key strategy for equipping young people with employable skills. He noted that while many youths remain in formal schools, the government is ensuring they also receive non-formal training such as entrepreneurship, innovation and business education to prepare them for life after graduation.
Alausa highlighted other interventions including the National Policy on Skills Development, adult and mass literacy programmes, and the Almajiri and Out-of-School Children Education initiative, which blends Quranic education with vocational and basic learning. He added that digital skills training has also become a major part of the government’s education reform agenda.
“The whole goal is to equip young Nigerians with skills for today and for the future,” the minister said, stressing that the government is focused on helping youths unlock their talents and contribute meaningfully to society. He also praised the Duke of Edinburgh for visiting Nigeria in November 2025 and reaffirmed Nigeria’s participation in the Duke of Edinburgh International Award Foundation.
Elijah Adeyemi
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