..…as COVTED’s 3rd international conference pushes for global skills competitiveness
The Vice Chancellor, Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED), Ijagun, Prof. Oluwole Banjo, FWISON, FASN, FAIMP, dfisn,FIELP, has called for renewed commitment to the upscaling of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) to meet global competitiveness standards.
He made the call while declaring open the 3rd International Conference of the College of Vocational and Technology Education (COVTED), held at the University’s Ososa Campus.
The two-day conference, themed “Upscaling Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) for Global Skills Competitiveness,” brought together scholars, policymakers, industry experts and students to deliberate on how to reposition vocational and technical Education for sustainable growth and innovation.
Prof. Banjo described TVET as a key driver of economic development and social inclusion, urging Educators and stakeholders to reinvent vocational education to align with the evolving demands of the global economy.
“TVET must not only prepare learners for today’s jobs but also equip them with the adaptability and creativity to thrive in tomorrow’s economy,” he added.
In his welcome address, the Dean of the College, Prof. Anthony Oyetunde Olugbenga Oyenuga, disclosed that the conference was convened to modernise curricula, bridge skills gaps and strengthen collaborations that would enhance TVET delivery and innovation.
He reaffirmed COVTED’s commitment to producing a workforce capable of transforming the economy through technology-driven learning and practical skills.
The Ogun State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Abayomi Arigbabu, hailed the conference as “a game changer,” noting that it would help reposition Vocational Education in the minds of young Nigerians.
He encouraged youths to embrace technology and hands-on skills as vital tools for national growth and productivity.
The Chairperson of the Local Organising Committee, Prof. Rachael Abisola Akerele, commended the planning team for their dedication, describing the success of the event as proof that teamwork and resilience can overcome challenges. She said the gathering represented a bold step toward advancing Technical and Vocational Education in Nigeria and beyond.
The Keynote speakers, Prof. Fakorede Saheed Olajide of the University of Lagos and Prof. Adetoun Adedotun Amubode of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), emphasised integrating Business Education and office Technology into TVET to boost employability, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
Highlights of the conference included the presentation of awards to three distinguished personalities — Prof. Abayomi Arigbabu; Asiwaju Sulaiman Adebola Adegunwa, OFR, Chairman/CEO of Rite Foods Ltd.; and Akogun Wale Raji Anomo, Executive Chairman, Ikosi-Ejinrin Local Government Area, Lagos State for their contributions to Education, leadership and community development.
With the success of the conference, COVTED reaffirmed TASUED’s leadership in advancing Vocational and Technical Education as a pathway to innovation, inclusion and sustainable development, positioning Nigeria to compete more effectively in the global skills economy.