The federal government has introduced a monthly stipend of N45,000 for students enrolled in technical colleges across the country.
Prof. Idris Bugaje, Executive Secretary of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), disclosed this information in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja. According to Bugaje, “This stipend will enhance the attractiveness of technical colleges, enabling young people to acquire skills qualifications and secure employment opportunities both locally and internationally.
“This initiative marks a significant turning point for the sector, which has experienced decline since the 1980s. Historically, TVET was prominent during colonial days and early independence, with 129 technical colleges existing at that time, compared to the current number and 15,000 senior secondary schools nationwide.
The N45,000 stipend is a grant and not a loan, meaning that recipients will not be required to repay it. The ultimate goal is to increase enrollment in technical education.”