A non-governmental organisation, Springforth Foundation, is advocating integration of skill acquisition into secondary school curriculum.
The organisation said the integration would address the growing challenge of youth unemployment.
The Founder, Mrs Blessing Agborume, made the advocacy in an interview with oir Correspondent on Sunday in Lagos.
Agborume said that equipping students with practical skills alongside academic knowledge would prepare them better for employment.
“Springforth is at the forefront of advocacy for a holistic approach to education by integrating skills acquisition into secondary school curriculum.
“We want students to be taught vocational skills such as fashion designing or tailoring, barbing, and digital skills including coding.
She also urged that students should be taught farming and fishing, among other skills.
“This will not only make them more employable, but also open up opportunities for self-employment and entrepreneurship,” she said.
Agborume noted that integrating skills acquisition into secondary school curriculum would require instructors and facilities.
She suggested collaboration with government agencies, the private sector and other stakeholders.
“By working together, we believe it is possible to create a robust and more effective education system that meets the needs of both students and employers.
“The advocacy is a step toward rethinking the traditional education model and preparing young people for the future.
“By equipping students with skills they need to succeed in the job market, Nigeria will reduce unemployment, alleviate pressure on the labour market and foster a more dynamic and resilient economy,“ Agborume said.
She said that since inception in June 2022, the foundation had sponsored 27 children into primary, junior and senior secondary schools.
According to her, it is the foundation’s way of contributing to the development of the society.
“We have engaged five persons in skills; two are learning barbing, two are learning generator repair, and one, fashion designing.
“We have also mentored a song writer, who also is a gospel singer.
“We also sponsor LEKKI sport television to encourage youth engagement in sports to discourage them from crime, drugs abuse and other vices,” she said.
