Nigeria seeks to link education with employment

Nigeria is working to improve the connection between education and job opportunities, as many young graduates struggle to find work after completing their studies. The government has approved reforms to the national service program, which aims to help young people transition more smoothly into the workforce.

AFRIDU leader calls for practical training

Chidiebere Ogbu, the world president of the African Diaspora Union, urged on October 13 that Nigerian education programs focus more on teaching practical skills. He spoke on the In The News program of Voice of Nigeria in Abuja, suggesting that the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) be turned into mandatory professional training for graduates.

Current education lacks real-world focus

Ogbu criticized the current educational system for emphasizing memorization and theory over practical skills, which he says leaves graduates unprepared for the job market. He believes this limits their chances of finding work, both in Nigeria and abroad.

NYSC reforms aim to improve skills training

The Nigerian government approved a major reform of the NYSC in June, the first comprehensive change to the program in 53 years. The reform plans to enhance training in leadership, entrepreneurship, and digital skills, and better match participants' assignments with their academic and career goals.

NYSC includes skill development already

The NYSC already has a component focused on skill acquisition and entrepreneurship. A specialized department aims to inform 200,000 graduates annually about these opportunities and support 100,000 through training and mentorship.

Unemployment remains a concern for graduates

According to the National Bureau of Statistics, 14.4% of young people aged 15 to 24 were not working, studying, or training in the first quarter of 2024. The unemployment rate among those with postsecondary education reached 9%, showing the challenges of moving from education to work.