The Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, has harped on the need for skills development for rapid socioeconomic development in the country.

The Minister made the disclosure at a meeting convened with critical stakeholders to advance the Nigerian Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF), a pivotal initiative aimed at enhancing the skills and employability of Nigerian youth.

GALAXY TV reports that while highlighting the urgency of aligning educational outcomes with labor market needs, Prof. Mamman reiterated the government's dedication to bridging the skills gap through strategic policies and collaborations across public and private sectors.

Mamman announced the establishment of 24 skills centers nationwide, designed to provide equal opportunities for all Nigerians, regardless of their location. He also lauded partnerships with organizations like TETFund and Innov8 Hub, which offer practical training and mentorship to young people and academics.

Also speaking at the event, the Minister of State for Education, Dr Yusuf Sununu, emphasized the need for collaboration among the stakeholders for the attainment of the desired results.

At the meeting, Prof. Idris Bugaje, Executive Secretary of the National Board for Technical Education, emphasized that the NSQF aimed at creating a standardized framework for skills training, ensuring that qualifications are recognized and valued both locally and internationally.

Prof. Bugaje reported significant progress over the past three years, with the number of Quality Assurance and Accreditation System (QAAS) approvals rising from 3,000 to a projected 6,000 in the near future.

Also, the Executive Secretary, National Commission for Colleges of Education, Prof. Paulinus Choke Okewelle assured that the body would continue to operate in line with the dictates of the Federal Ministry of Education.