Senate supports bill for Technical Education Institute in Benue State

The Nigerian Senate has passed, for a second reading, a bill to establish the Federal College of Vocational and Technical Studies in Naka, Benue State.

The bill, sponsored by Senator Titus Zam, representing Benue North West under the All Progressives Congress (APC), seeks to promote innovative learning in areas such as bricklaying, electrical installations, plastering, roofing, plumbing, painting, cooling systems/refrigeration, carpentry, steel fabrication, and welding, among others.

Highlighting the importance of the proposed institution, Senator Zam emphasized the need for technical skills acquisition to combat Nigeria’s rising unemployment rate. He noted that embracing vocational education aligns with global trends, especially as artificial intelligence (AI) continues to reshape traditional white-collar jobs.

“It is noteworthy to mention that there is a high rate of unemployment in the country,” Senator Zam stated. “If Nigeria is to combat this menace, we must prioritize technical skills acquisition, as is done in other jurisdictions. This will ensure alignment with global paradigm shifts and help mitigate youth restiveness and social vices, thereby reducing insecurity.”

According to the Senator, vocational and technical skills acquisition is essential for economic development, and the proposed college would empower unemployed youth with the skills necessary to contribute meaningfully to national progress.

“The establishment of this college will afford our teeming unemployed youths the opportunity to acquire requisite skills and contribute to national development,” he added, describing the bill as a commitment to improving career and technical education in Nigeria.

Supporting the bill, Senator Emmanuel Udende, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Anti-Corruption and Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), stressed the importance of knowledge acquisition. He noted that establishing such institutions would foster peace, security, and development, particularly in Benue State.

Senator Udende also highlighted the potential for job creation and development the institute would bring to the area, underscoring its long-term benefits for the region.

Other Senators expressed unanimous support for the bill, which has now been referred to the relevant committee for further legislative action.