The Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) has announced plans to establish 72 new specialised ICT centres in universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education across Nigeria.
Sonny Echono, TETFund’s Executive Secretary, disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday in Abuja.
Enhancing Digital Skills for Employability
According to Echono, the initiative aims to equip students with critical digital skills in:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Cybersecurity
- Robotics
- Software Development
He noted that six ICT hubs had already commenced operations in February 2025, while the additional 72 centres are expected to be inaugurated later this year.
“These days, nobody is looking at your BSc or PhD. They want to know your proficiency. Can you code? What talents do you have? These are the things employers are interested in,” Echono stated.
Focus on Vocational and Technical Training
Beyond ICT, TETFund is prioritising Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) by:
- Investing in modern infrastructure
- Enhancing professional training for electricians, welders, fabricators, and solar panel technicians
Echono emphasised that these efforts aim to bridge Nigeria’s skills gap and boost economic growth through a well-trained workforce.
TETFund Research Grants Open to All
Addressing concerns over private universities’ access to TETFund research grants, Echono clarified that research funding is merit-based and open to all scholars, including those in private institutions and even non-Nigerian researchers.
“Even if you are a non-Nigerian working on a solution to our problems, we are open to collaboration,” he said.
Modernising Nigeria’s Education System
The new ICT and vocational training initiatives are part of a broader effort to align Nigeria’s education system with global industry demands.
By integrating digital skills and hands-on training, TETFund hopes to enhance graduate employability and position Nigeria as a hub for tech-driven innovation.
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