The Executive Secretary of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), Idris Bugaje, has commended the Katsina State Government for introducing Hausa-translated technical training materials, describing the move as a groundbreaking step in Nigeria’s vocational education space.
Speaking during a visit by officials of the Katsina Youth Craft Village to NBTE headquarters in Kaduna, Bugaje said translating National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF) materials into Hausa would significantly improve access to skills training, especially for people in rural communities who often face language barriers.
He highlighted that the initiative stands out as the first of its kind in the country and credited Governor Dikko Radda’s administration for driving reforms in the sector through an investment exceeding ₦5 billion. According to him, the funding has repositioned the Katsina Youth Craft Village as a leading hub for technical and vocational development nationwide.
The State Coordinator of the centre, Kabir Kofar Soro, explained that the programme currently covers 14 different trade areas, with carefully standardised learning materials translated into Hausa to enhance understanding and practical application. He noted that the effort was inspired by global examples where indigenous language education has accelerated technological advancement.
Kofar Soro also revealed that the institution is set to graduate 1,662 trainees in its upcoming ceremony, a significant increase from the 600 participants in the previous batch. He added that between 80 and 85 per cent of past trainees are already engaged in businesses linked to their acquired skills, reflecting the programme’s impact.
To strengthen quality delivery, the centre has deployed multiple quality assurance managers, over 100 assessors, and about 250 instructors across the state. Bugaje confirmed that graduates would earn recognised National Skills Qualification certificates and pledged NBTE’s support for the programme.
He further encouraged the state to push for nationwide adoption of the translated manuals and suggested expanding the initiative by incorporating Ajami script to reach Almajiri learners. According to him, combining vocational training with traditional education could help reduce street begging and improve youth productivity.
Bugaje also advised the institution to begin preparing skilled workers for major national projects such as gas pipelines and power infrastructure, noting that such developments would require a large pool of trained artisans.
He concluded by praising Katsina State’s decision to unify its skills programmes under one platform, expressing confidence that the Craft Village would continue to serve as a model for vocational education in Nigeria.
Source: Channels TV
Leave a comment