Maryam Aminu
The Federal Government is set to collaborate with Germany on an innovative dual vocational training program aimed at equipping Nigerian youth with critical skills, enhancing their employability, and driving economic growth.
The Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, disclosed this during a meeting with a delegation from the IHK Giessen-Friedberg Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Germany, led by its President, Dr. Matthias Leder, in Abuja.
Highlighting the Ministry’s vision, Comrade Olawande reiterated the government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for young people to thrive.
He unveiled an ambitious plan to equip seven million Nigerian youth with essential vocational skills over the next two years.
“Many young people prioritize obtaining certificates, yet without practical experience, success in the job market remains uncertain. To bridge this gap, the Ministry is organizing an intensive three-day skills training program across 50 revitalized Youth Centres, culminating in a central event. This initiative will significantly boost employability and prepare youth for a competitive global workforce,” Olawande stated.
Dr. Matthias Leder described Germany’s Dual Vocational Training system as a potential game-changer for Nigeria, emphasizing that structured on-the-job training has proven successful in meeting public and private sector needs in Germany.
He suggested that granting Nigerian chambers of commerce greater authority by making company membership mandatory would significantly enhance their ability to support economic development.
“Dual Vocational Training presents a win-win opportunity for both countries. While Nigeria grapples with high youth unemployment, German companies are experiencing a shortage of skilled workers. This program proposes sending young Nigerians to receive free vocational training in Germany. If they pass the required exams, they will receive multiple job offers from the companies where they trained, gaining internationally recognized qualifications and promising career prospects,” Dr. Leder explained.
Former Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, who is also the Managing Partner of the initiative, reaffirmed the commitment to strengthening economic cooperation between Germany and Nigeria.
He highlighted that the partnership builds on a longstanding relationship dating back to 2005, with the first visit to Nigeria in 2011. In 2012, IHK Giessen-Friedberg initiated the Dual Vocational Education Project, aimed at transferring key aspects of Germany’s world-class vocational training system to Nigeria.
The collaboration between both nations is expected to play a pivotal role in reducing youth unemployment, fostering skill acquisition, and expanding economic opportunities for Nigerian youth.
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