Promoting an Inclusive Innovation Ecosystem for Sustainable Development in Nigeria Through Technical and Vocational Education and Training (Tvet)

Adekunle Osidipe
Institute of African Studies, Zhejiang Normal University

Abstract

The changing world of work and dynamic future of jobs due to the increasing advancement in technology comes impacts on all facets of human endeavours requiring proactive adaptations by governments, corporations and individuals to harness the potentials of technology for sustainable development. The ability to innovate and produce ideas has become more powerful than the ability to produce products, or mine resources. Intellectual resources have become the fundamental resources and education a formidable resource base for wealth generation that can use or create resources for sustainable development. Nigeria needs knowledgeable and technically-skilled workforce with the ability to proffer innovative solutions to problems and challenges arising from their immediate environment in response to changing circumstances within and outside. This workforce is currently inadequate or unavailable in the country as a result of the long-term neglect of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) system. Using the eclectic enquiry method, this study explores the trajectories of TVET in Nigeria and the existing prospects within and outside Nigeria, for the country to nurture knowledgeable, skilled and innovative workforce needed for receiving and harnessing the dynamic changes in science and technology for achieving the country's sustainable development goals; identifies the disconnect between Nigeria's development plans and the education system and recommends that the country needs to upscale investment in effective and inclusive TVET strategically synchronized with the national development plans thereby providing the requisite innovation ecosystem for sustainable development in the country. Key Words: Nigeria, TVET, Ecosystem, Sustainable Development


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