April 13, (THEWILL) — The Federal Government has opened applications for the second cohort of its flagship Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Programme, in a renewed effort to tackle unemployment and stimulate entrepreneurship among Nigerian youth.
A statement issued on Monday by Mrs Folasade Boriowo, Director of Press and Public Relations, Federal Ministry of Education, said the nationwide initiative is designed to strengthen technical capacity, promote job creation, and equip young Nigerians with practical, industry-relevant skills.
Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, described the programme as a strategic intervention aligned with the Federal Government’s broader economic agenda.
“The TVET Programme remains a critical platform for empowering our youth with industry-relevant skills that will enable them to thrive in today’s rapidly evolving economy,” Alausa said.
He noted that the second cohort introduces key improvements aimed at enhancing efficiency, expanding impact, and ensuring better outcomes for participants across the country.
The minister explained that the initiative supports the Renewed Hope Agenda of the current administration by expanding access to skills-based education and creating sustainable pathways for employment and self-reliance.
“This initiative reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to investing in the productive capacity of Nigerian youth through practical training and recognised certification, thereby creating pathways for self-employment, innovation, and long-term economic growth,” he added.
Alausa disclosed that the programme will offer intensive six-month and one-year hands-on training in accredited centres across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Participants, he said, will receive a monthly stipend of ₦22,500 throughout the duration of their training and will be awarded nationally recognised certification upon successful completion.
“The training will cover a wide range of high-demand sectors, including Construction, Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Automotive Technology, Creative Media, Agriculture, Fashion and Garment Production, Cosmetology, Tourism and Hospitality, Catering Services, and Leather Works, among others,” he said.
To ensure transparency and accountability, the minister stressed that attendance would be closely monitored using biometric verification systems.
“To ensure transparency and accountability, attendance will be strictly monitored using biometric verification systems, and stipends will only be paid to trainees who meet the programme’s attendance requirements,” he stated.
He further emphasised the need for commitment among applicants.
“Applicants are expected to demonstrate a strong commitment to learning practical skills and must be available for full and consistent participation throughout the training period,” he said.
Alausa also revealed that the ministry is collaborating with the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, and Tourism to strengthen training in creative and cultural trades, positioning participants to benefit from opportunities within Nigeria’s growing creative economy.
As part of the application requirements, prospective candidates must provide their National Identification Number (NIN) and Bank Verification Number (BVN) during registration.
“Importantly, applicants would also be required to provide their National Identification Number (NIN) and Bank Verification Number (BVN) during the registration process,” he added.
The ministry encouraged eligible Nigerians to take advantage of the opportunity by applying through the official TVET portal, noting that the programme offers a viable pathway to skills acquisition, entrepreneurship, and economic productivity.
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