By Tony Obiechina, Abuja

The Federal Ministry of Education has announced the commencement of applications for the second cohort of the National Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Programme.

The ministry said the programme is part of efforts to boost skills acquisition and tackle unemployment among Nigerian youth.

In a statement issued by the ministry’s Director of Press and Public Relations, Boriowo Folasade on Monday, the ministry said the applications will open on Monday, April 13, 2026, at 4 pm.

It further invited interested Nigerians to participate in the nationwide initiative aimed at strengthening technical capacity, promoting entrepreneurship, and enhancing job creation.

The Minister of Education, Maruf Alausa, described the programme as a key strategy for human capital development.

She said the initiative is designed to equip young Nigerians with industry-relevant skills needed to succeed in a rapidly evolving economy.

Alausa said the programme aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, adding that it reflects the administration’s commitment to expanding access to skills-based education and fostering sustainable livelihoods.

He also said the Federal Government is investing in the productive capacity of young people through practical training and recognised certification, creating pathways for self-employment, innovation, and long-term economic growth.

“In strengthening this programme, the Federal Government is investing in the productive capacity of our youth. By providing practical training and recognised certification, we are creating pathways for self-employment, innovation, and long-term economic growth,” the Minister said.

The statement noted that as part of efforts to expand opportunities in emerging sectors, the Ministry is collaborating with the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture and Tourism to strengthen training in creative and cultural industries, with a view to unlocking the potential of Nigeria’s creative economy.

According to the statement the TVET Programme will provide intensive six-month and one-year hands-on training in accredited centres across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. He added that participants will receive a monthly stipend of N22,500 and a nationally recognised certificate upon successful completion.

Boriowo added the training areas include construction, ICT, automotive technology, creative media, agriculture, fashion and garment production, cosmetology, tourism and hospitality, catering services, and leather works.

The Ministry further stated that applicants are required to demonstrate commitment to the programme and must be available for full participation throughout the training period, adding that attendance will be monitored using biometric verification systems, with stipends tied to compliance.

By Tambaya Julius, Abuja

The Nasarawa State University, Keffi over the weekend celebrated its 25th silver jubilee anniversary and combined 8th convocation ceremony, where over 25,000 students were awarded with various academic degrees.

The grand event, held over the weekend at the school main Campus Keffi, was confirmed and honoured with Doctor of Philosophy (PhDs), Master’s degrees, First Degrees, and Postgraduate Diplomas on graduating students across different faculties.

The ceremony also confirmed honorary doctorate degrees on prominent personalities for their contributions to global leadership, business, and development.

Among the prominent personalities honoured were the President of Tanzania, Samia Suluhu Hassan; Abdul Samad Rabiu, Chairman of BUA Group; and Mahmood Ahmad.

The awards recognised their outstanding contributions to global leadership, development, and their roles in advancing socio-economic development both within Africa and globally.

During the ceremony, the Governor of Nasarawa State, Abdullahi Sule, awarded a cash prize of five hundred thousand Naira (N500,000) each to 82 first-class graduates, while the overall best graduating student was awarded N1 million.

The governor explained that the initiative was designed to promote excellence among students and aligns with the state government’s broader agenda of investing in education and human capital development. According to him, recognising academic achievement is essential in inspiring younger generations to pursue excellence.

Sule emphasised that rewarding hard work and dedication would encourage students across the state to strive for distinction in their academic pursuits. He noted that such incentives serve as a catalyst for improved performance and a stronger educational system.

As part of activities marking the institution’s 8th convocation and 25th anniversary celebrations, the governor commissioned several infrastructure projects at the University.

The newly inaugurated projects include the Alumni Secretariat, the Department of Accounting Postgraduate E-Library, as well as the university’s second gate and access road. He commended the university management for its commitment to infrastructural development and academic excellence.

The two-day celebration attracted a wide array of dignitaries from across Nigeria, including Governors, Ambassadors, Vice-chancellors, professors, traditional rulers, Business Men, and key stakeholders in the education sector.

In her address, the Vice-Chancellor of Nasarawa State University, Keffi, Prof. Sa’adatu Hassan Liman, warmly welcomed guests and expressed appreciation to the university’s leadership for their continued support.

She specifically acknowledged the Chancellor, HRH. Shehu Chindo Yamusa the Emir of Keffi, as well as the Pro-Chancellor, Prof. Atahiru Jiga, and members of the governing council for their impactful leadership.

Liman credited the institution’s progress to strong governance and visionary leadership, noting that both staff and students have benefitted from an enabling academic environment.

“I have acquired knowledge and experience in this institution due to impactful and good leadership,” she said.

She further urged students to prioritise their education and draw inspiration from the leadership and values upheld by the university. According to her, such commitment is essential for contributing meaningfully to Nigeria’s academic advancement and global competitiveness.

“Apply your knowledge positively, contributing to the advancement and educational success of Nigeria and the global community,” she appealed.

The West African Examinations Council has released the official timetable for the 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination for school candidates.

According to the final international timetable published on WAEC’s official X handle on Monday, the examination will commence on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, and end on Friday, June 19, 2026.

The council said the examination will begin with Foods and Nutrition 3 (Practical) Planning Session and Home Management 3 (Practical) Planning Session.

WASSCE serves as a critical qualification that secondary school students must pass to gain admission into university and other tertiary institutions.

The exam covers core subjects such as English Language and Mathematics, as well as a wide range of elective papers in sciences, arts, humanities, and vocational/technical areas.

It takes place across WAEC’s member countries, including Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia, Sierra Leone, and The Gambia.