The Edo State Board for Technical and Vocational Education in partnership with the GIZ-SKYE programme has trained 25 teachers on Disability and Inclusive Technical and Vocational Education and Training.This training initiative, which commenced in September 2024, involves master trainers from six states—Lagos, Ogun, Enugu, Plateau, FCT, and Edo State—and aims to strengthen the capabilities of 25 instructors from five technical and vocational colleges: Benin Technical College, Afuze Technical College, Usugbenu Technical College, Igarra Technical College, and Ehor Technical College. The program seeks to enhance competency in addressing the unique challenges faced by learners, particularly women and persons with disabilities.
During the three-day cascading training in Benin City, The Edo State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Joan Osa Ovaiwe, encouraged participants to share the knowledge gained with their colleagues, ensuring broader access to this vital information.
Dr. Ovaiwe expressed gratitude to GIZ-SKYE for their ongoing support, emphasizing the importance of their partnership as the current administration prepares to transition. She highlighted the need for sustained collaboration to enhance the technical and vocational education sectors, especially in light of the anticipated changes in government.
“I commend you all for participating in this training. It’s inspiring to see your commitment,”. She also noted the need to cultivate interest in science subjects among students, particularly girls, as current trends show a gender disparity in enrollment within technical vocational schools.
Helen Igboka, GIZ-SKYE Programme Component Manager for Gender and Inclusion, emphasized that competency and skills development should not be influenced by gender or disability. She advocated for creating a conducive learning environment free from barriers such as harmful cultural norms and inadequate infrastructure, which hinder individuals from reaching their potential.
Igboka urged teachers to champion the cause of inclusive technical and vocational education, highlighting its role in poverty eradication and economic empowerment.
“Our goal as trainers is to help all students harness their full potential and succeed in their chosen fields,”.
In his welcome address, Dr. Terseer Nyulaku, Executive Secretary of the Edo State TVE Board, represented by Mercy Imasuen Isibor, Director of Learning Development, underscored the necessity of inclusive practices in TVET. “By ensuring that every individual has access to quality training, we enhance their potential and contribute to a more equitable workforce,”.
Mr. Asemota Emmanuel, a Chemistry and Mathematics teacher from Afuze Technical College, shared his positive experience, noting that the training broadened his perspective on inclusivity. He expressed his commitment to removing barriers to education for all students, ensuring everyone feels included and valued.
Teddy Eragbai
