Produce Economic Builders; FCT Minister Enjoins School Principals

By: Sunday Shekwonya

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, has charged the Principals of Secondary Schools across the federation to train students on how to be industrious and contributors to the nation’s economy.

The Minister said that the economic state of the country in this 21st century is a true reflection of what the Secondary Schools produce for the society as graduates, which may either be good or bad.

The Minister made gave this charge in Abuja during the 66th Annual National Congress of the 2024 All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools (ANCOPSS).

Wike, who was represented at the conference by the Secretary for FCT Education Secretariat, Dr. Danlami Hayyo, described the theme of the Congress ‘developing entrepreneurship education in Secondary Schools in Nigeria,’ as apt.

According to him, the socio-economic development is not possible in the 21st century without proper entrepreneurship skills.

He said that quick actions must be taken to inculcate the habit of economic development and self-employed among the youth, irrespective of sex, age, culture and religion.

His words: “We now live in an age where fraudulent life style appears to be the norm; the new trend is YAHOO. These youngsters full of energy and vibrancy crave and run after easy wealth.”

“Hard work and industry seem to have been devalued. It is your duty as Principals of Secondary Schools to collectively introduce skills and value orientation capable of channeling the desires of these youths to the values of hard work and patience.” He added.

In his welcome address, the National President of ANCOPSS, Muhammed Ibn Musa, said the theme of this year’s Congress is apt, especially as countries are gravitating towards Entrepreneurship Education to encourage self-employment among the energetic Youth thereby contributing to the nation’s economy.

Expressing enthusiasm over the subject matter of the Congress, Musa emphasized that entrepreneurship education is a must, especially in Secondary Schools where the proper orientation and knowledge on self-employment can be impacted on the vibrant youth.

Speaking earlier, the FCT ANCOPSS President, Dr. Bello Adam Gupa, charged all the Principals of Secondary Schools to strive for excellence, uphold the highest standards of professionalism, and above all, ensure that every student given the best possible opportunity to succeed.

Gupa revealed that the Congress would bring together educators, policy makers and industry experts to explore innovative strategies and practical approaches for integrating entrepreneurship education into Secondary School curriculum.