In a strategic move aimed at equipping young learners with life-long skills and fostering entrepreneurship for self-reliance, the federal government has announced the introduction of a School-to-Work scheme. Dr. Hamid Bobboyi, the Executive Secretary of Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), revealed this initiative during a meeting with stakeholders in education, emphasizing its focus on junior secondary school students.

The School-to-Work scheme aims to provide learners with the opportunity to identify their talents and potential early in life, bridging the gap between academic education and vocational skills development. Dr. Bobboyi highlighted the importance of nurturing productive, self-employed individuals who can contribute to the economic well-being of the country, thereby reducing post-junior secondary school education wastage.

The scheme is structured to offer at least six months of training, with two months per year dedicated to study in junior secondary schools. During this period, learners will be exposed to various trades and skills, laying the foundation for specialization and entrepreneurship. Dr. Bobboyi emphasized the need for collaboration among federal, state, and local government levels, as well as active involvement from the private sector, to ensure the successful implementation of the programme.

Dr. Folake Davies, Director of Basic Education at the Federal Ministry of Education, underscored the importance of the School-to-Work scheme in providing youths with the necessary experience to excel in the working environment. She emphasized the need for skills acquisition and highlighted the collaborative effort required across all levels of government and the private sector to empower young individuals for various opportunities in the workforce.