In a move to address the challenge of unemployment and promote gender equality, the Federal Government of Nigeria has announced plans to tackle the disparity in female participation in technical education. The Minister of Education, Prof Tahir Mamman, revealed this while monitoring the ongoing National Business and Technical Board (NABTEB) Examination in Abuja.
Prof Mamman acknowledged that the number of females enrolled in technical education programs is significantly lower compared to their male counterparts. To address this imbalance, the government is implementing various policies and measures to encourage more girls and women to pursue technical courses.
“We have a raft of policies and measures to ramp up female participation in these technical courses. There are programmes already in place. I believe in the not too distant, you will see that parity completely in all the areas,” the Minister stated.
The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education, Mrs. Didi Walson-Jack, called on parents to inspire their female children to take an interest in technical education. She emphasized the importance of parental support and encouragement in shaping the educational choices of young girls.
The Registrar of NABTEB, Professor Ifeoma Isiugo-Abanihe, highlighted the significance of the ongoing examinations, stating that they are equivalent to the West African Examination Council (WAEC) and the National Examination Council (NECO). She added that successful candidates will have more opportunities for admission into higher institutions, further emphasizing the value of technical education.
According to Professor Isiugo-Abanihe, a total of 67,751 candidates are sitting for the NABTEB Examination nationwide. This large number underscores the growing interest in technical education and the government’s efforts to promote skills acquisition from the basic level of education.
The Federal Government’s initiative to address gender disparity in technical education aligns with the global push for gender equality in education and the workforce. By encouraging more girls and women to pursue technical courses, the government aims to create a more diverse and skilled workforce capable of driving economic growth and development.
Moreover, bridging the gender gap in technical education can have far-reaching implications for women’s empowerment, financial independence, and overall societal progress. As the government implements its policies and measures, it is crucial to ensure that these efforts are sustained and expanded to reach every corner of the country.
The Federal Government’s commitment to tackling gender disparity in technical education is a positive step towards creating a more inclusive and equitable education system. By inspiring girls and women to embrace technical skills, the government is investing in the future of Nigeria and its people, ultimately contributing to the reduction of unemployment and the advancement of the nation as a whole.
