FG urges Nigerians to prioritize skills over university degrees

TRIBUNE NG
The Federal Government has called on Nigerians to look beyond merely acquiring university degrees, emphasizing the need for investment in skills acquisition and technological advancements to ensure greater productivity.

This appeal was made by the Director General of the National Productivity Centre (NPC), Baffa Dan Agundi, during the National Unity Robot Project held at the National Stadium, Abuja.

Agundi highlighted the growing relevance of technical skills in a rapidly evolving economy, seaking at the event, Agundi noted that many skilled artisans, such as vulcanizers and mechanics, often generate more income than university graduates employed in civil service roles.

He emphasized that Nigerians must change their mindset and prioritize productivity-enhancing skills.

“I believe Nigeria needs something like this robotic program,” Agundi remarked. “Parents are rushing their kids to universities for degrees that may not yield anything, while their creativity and productivity can be nurtured in other educational settings.

Mechanics, vulcanizers, and other SMEs, many without degrees, are thriving while our graduates are seeking jobs. A street vulcanizer can often earn more than a graduate working for a government agency.”

He urged Nigerian parents to reconsider pushing children through the academic system without preparing them for a productive future. “We need to stop pushing underage children to finish school quickly just to bag degrees,” Agundi added.

Agundi also shared his efforts to equip National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members attached to the NPC with the skills necessary to become independent after their service year. “At my center, we ensure that Corps members leave with something tangible. It’s not enough for them to just serve and go,” he stated.

The President of the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS), Dr. Samira Jibir, echoed Agundi’s sentiment. She stressed the importance of nurturing young minds with technological skills and celebrated the nation’s progress in technological advancement, particularly in robotics.

“Nigeria is beginning to live up to expectations as Africa’s giant with rapid advancements in technology, especially in the development of robotics,” Jibir said. “Robotics in Nigeria reflects the global trend of integrating automation and AI into various sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, and education.”