Ekiti State has been recognized as a benchmark in the development of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) for consistently demonstrating effective practices and measurable progress in the sector.
This recognition was reaffirmed during a learning tour by officials of the Ondo State Ministry of Education, led by the Commissioner for Education, Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun, who visited Ekiti to study its model with the aim of revamping technical education in Ondo State.
Prof. Ajibefun described Ekiti as a leading model in TVET, noting that both Ekiti and Lagos States were selected for benchmarking due to the significant improvements recorded in their technical colleges. He said the tour became necessary to gather firsthand experience and insights that will guide Ondo State in redesigning its technical education system to better meet modern industry needs.
According to him, the visit has been productive and will inform key reforms planned for the sector.
Welcoming the delegation, the Ekiti State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Olabimpe Aderiye, said the progress recorded in vocational education in Ekiti is a product of the commitment of the Governor Biodun Oyebanji administration to excellence, equity, efficiency, and continuous improvement in education.
She emphasized that it is erroneous to regard conventional secondary schools as superior to technical colleges, explaining that vocational institutions offer an alternative pathway where students explore creativity, innovation, and hands-on skills that prepare them for direct entry into the workforce.
Dr. Aderiye added that vocational skills remain critical in today’s economy, noting that even university graduates are encouraged to acquire skills during the NYSC scheme to enhance their prospects.
The Commissioner revealed that the Ekiti State Government is working towards affiliations with Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology, Ikere (BOUESTI) and the State Polytechnic, Isan-Ekiti to ensure seamless progression for technical college graduates into tertiary institutions.
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She also expressed appreciation to development partners and philanthropists for their interventions, which have strengthened facilities and programmes across the state’s technical colleges.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Ekiti State Board for Technical Education, Hon. Kayode Babade, highlighted the remarkable growth in the sector, stating that enrolment in technical colleges has risen to over 2,500 students statewide. He attributed the growth to government’s sustained investment and extensive sensitization campaigns through town hall meetings, radio, and television programmes aimed at correcting long-standing misconceptions about technical education.
The study tour featured visits to selected technical colleges in Ekiti, where the Ondo State team interacted with administrators, instructors, and students to understand operational models, training techniques, and innovations driving the state’s TVET success.