FCT TECHNICAL COLLEGES TO BE ACCREDITED BY NBTE
By: Ngozi Dike-Nkemjika
Plans are underway to achieve full accreditation for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Science and Technical Colleges by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE).
The Director of the FCT Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), Mr. Olobashola Kolawole, disclosed this while receiving a team from the National Board for Technical Education, who had just concluded their Resources Inspection Visit to the four technical colleges under the purview of DSTI in the FCT.
While appreciating the team, the Director stated that their well-thought-out programmes, doggedness, and support are making a great impact in the area of technical education.
He revealed that the schools are currently being upgraded to provide various facilities, such as production and training centres, laboratories, catering and crafts centres, and teacher training and retraining to ensure compliance with technical education standards.
The Director, however, assured that the Department would intensify teacher training especially in technical education in collaboration with NBTE, as well as establish and equip an e-library.
The NBTE team, led by Dr. Musa Koko, Director of Technical, Vocational and Skills, appreciated the school principals in his report for their collaborative efforts and dedication in taking the team around the schools for the resources and advisory inspection since their arrival.
He explained that the purpose of the Resources Inspection was to evaluate the ongoing trades offered in the colleges for compliance with NBTE standards, noting that this would boost the credibility of the colleges, enhance the employability of graduates, and provide them with access to the benefits of the new TVET initiatives.
Dr. Koko expressed delight that the schools are performing very well academically and in technical subjects but pointed out that some facilities, such as workshops, training centres, laboratories, and work tools/equipment, need to be upgraded, while ongoing projects should be completed.
He also emphasized the need for more teachers, especially technical teachers and laboratory attendants, to maximize quality teaching and learning and ensure that secondary school graduates who acquire technical skills become employable or self-employed.
In her submission, the Director in charge of Technology Acquisition and Promotion, DSTI, Mrs. Angela Nwachukwu, appreciated the team for their conscientious supervision, observations, and willingness to deepen collaboration with the Department, noting that most of the stipulations for accreditation of DSTI schools are near completion.
Speaking on behalf of the principals, the Director/Principal of GSSS Maitama, Mallam Isa Usman Okuru, commended the NBTE team for their comprehensive advisory inspection visit and unbiased report.
He affirmed that DSTI and school authorities would always grant full access and support whenever the team visits for such inspections, which he believes will further boost technical education in the FCT.
