The Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) has raised concerns over the widening gap between Nigeria’s education system and the skills required by employers, warning that weaknesses across the education pipeline are limiting young people’s transition into productive employment.
The group said the effectiveness of education should be assessed beyond the number of certificates awarded, with greater emphasis placed on whether learners acquire practical capabilities that improve productivity and meet the demands of a changing economy.
Oluwatobi Oseni, Lead of the Human Capital Development Thematic Group of the NESG Community of Practice on Youth, said the country faces challenges ranging from poor foundational literacy and numeracy to declining examination outcomes and difficulties moving graduates into productive jobs.
The concerns were raised during a pre-summit dialogue on “Future-proofing Nigerian Education,” organised ahead of the 32nd Nigerian Economic Summit. Stakeholders from government, educational institutions, the private sector and development organisations examined issues around education quality, access, curriculum, skills development and employability.
NESG has also identified stronger links between education providers and employers, expanded technical and vocational training, and improved digital skills as important elements in addressing Nigeria’s labour-market challenges.
The group’s position highlights the need for Nigeria to align human-capital development more closely with the skills demanded by emerging industries and a technology-driven economy.
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