ASABA/Nigeria: At the 3rd edition of the Technical Colleges Fair and Exhibition held at Model Technical College, Asaba, the Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, emphasized the pivotal role of technical and vocational skills training in addressing the dire unemployment situation among youths in the country.
Represented by Deputy Governor Sir Monday Onyeme, Governor Oborevwori underscored the significance of the State Government’s initiative in establishing Technical Colleges across the three senatorial districts. He highlighted their aim: to equip students with both academic knowledge and practical vocational skills, particularly in applied science and technology fields, crucial for employment opportunities.
“In these times of economic hardship, with a scarcity of ready-made white or blue-collar jobs, vocational training and skills acquisition offer the most viable pathway,” Governor Oborevwori asserted, addressing the attending students.
He further stressed the advantages of such training, encouraging students to view themselves as potential entrepreneurs, empowered to create jobs based on the skills acquired during their education.
Governor Oborevwori also addressed the evolving nature of employability, stating, “The world is gradually moving beyond just formal education for survival. With rising unemployment and insufficient industries to absorb graduates, acquiring skills becomes essential for economic survival.”
Expressing hope in the students’ potential, he urged them to utilize the skills obtained to shape their desired futures. The governor reaffirmed the State Government’s commitment to the students’ holistic development through the MORE agenda implementation, urging perseverance for a better tomorrow.
The event, graced by Commissioner for Technical Education Hon. Joan Onyemaechi, celebrated innovation and creativity among technical school students. Onyemaechi highlighted the fair’s objective: to assess outstanding indigenous projects and foster healthy competition among students from various schools.
Underlining the remarkable increase in student enrollment from 5,739 in 2022/2023 to 8,003 in 2023/2024, Onyemaechi revealed ongoing efforts to arrange boarding facilities for students, ensuring a conducive learning environment.
Chief Fidelis Tilije, the State Commissioner for Finance and the occasion’s Chairman, lauded the efforts of the immediate past Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, in revitalizing Technical Education in the state. He urged students to apply their knowledge for personal growth.
Delivering a keynote speech on “Using Technical Schools to Tackle Climate Change,” Chief Newton Jibunor highlighted the global struggle against climate change. He urged students to harness their technical skills to contribute meaningfully to this vital cause.
The ceremony concluded with the recognition and awarding of Model Technical College Asaba, Ogor Technical College, and Sapele Technical College for their outstanding performance at the exhibition, signaling the celebration of talent and achievement in the technical education sphere.
