Enhancing Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) for Sustainable National Security and National Development in Nigeria

Abstract

Security has become a topical issue in Nigeria as well as in the global community. Security of lives and property is everybody’s business, so all hands must be on deck. the essence of education is to provide solutions to both present and future societal problems. Our educational system needs to be reviewed in favour of skilled-based education such as Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) that adequately prepares individuals in skills, techniques, knowledge, and attitudes for effective employment in the world of work. Evidence from literature has shown that the majority of security breakdowns nowadays are being perpetrated by the youth; hence, the occupation areas available in TVET can equip the individuals with the skills necessary for productivity and self-reliance. When individuals are self-reliant, their condition of living will improve, insecurity will reduce, industrialisation will be enhanced, and there will be total revitalisation of the economy; all these are the ingredients of national development. However, despite the numerous potentials of TVET, the programme is bedevilled with many challenges such as underestimation of practical teaching, weakness of teachers’ force in practical teaching, and outdated curricula. The paper recommended that Security needs to be prioritised by both individuals and government since industrialisation and economic growth, which are necessary for national development, can only thrive in a secure environment. Also, the TVET curriculum should be reviewed and tailored to align with the evolving needs of the labour market.