Dr. Tunji Alausa, Nigeria’s Minister of Education, has pledged to overhaul the country’s tertiary education system to prioritize practical skills over theoretical knowledge.

Speaking at the 2024 TETFund National Research Fair in Abuja, Alausa revealed plans to shift the model of education to 20% theory and 80% hands-on experience.

This move aims to address the issue of graduates lacking the technical skills needed for the workforce. Alausa emphasized the importance of technical and vocational education (TVET) and announced initiatives to incentivize enrollment in technical schools, covering tuition and ensuring 80% of the training is practical.

Alausa also disclosed that President Tinubu had approved N5 billion for research funding in 2024 to support innovative solutions for Nigeria’s challenges, including youth underemployment, poverty, insecurity, and infrastructure decay. This initiative, part of the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda, will focus on leveraging local research and technology for national development.