The Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) has unveiled the Sector Skills Council for Engineering (SSC4E), comprising 10 representatives of relevant bodies in the engineering sector, as part of efforts to tackle the problems of skill gaps in Nigeria.

The initiative aims to tackle the pressing issues of skills shortages and outdated competencies within the engineering workforce.

Also, SSC4E is envisioned as a collaborative platform uniting government agencies, educational institutions, industry associations, employers, and workers’ representatives.

Speaking at the event, which took place on the 2nd day of the 32nd Engineering Assembly in Abuja, organised by the the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), the president of the Council, Professor Sadiq Zubair Abubakar, said the council would bridge the skill gaps in the engineering sector.

He said that the council will develop occupational standards across various engineering trades and services.

Abubakar also added that the council will spearhead a Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) programme aimed at upskilling informal artisans, enhancing their performance and income levels.

He said, “The council’s mandate includes the development of industry-driven training programs, certification standards, and accreditation mechanisms to ensure that the engineering workforce remains at the forefront of technological advancements.

“Key objectives of the SSC4E include creating a comprehensive national skills database, establishing and accrediting training centres nationwide, and implementing a certification program recognized by employers and industry stakeholders.

“The council will also spearhead a Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) program aimed at upskilling informal artisans, enhancing their performance and income levels.

“To oversee the council’s operations, COREN has appointed Engr. Tech Aminu M. Kangiwa as Secretary of SSC4E and outlined strategies for the successful implementation of the National Skills Qualification (NSQ) Programme.

“The SSC4E is notably private sector-led, with 70 per cent of its membership drawn from key stakeholders across the ten dominant engineering sectors in Nigeria”.

Abubakar highlighted the council’s responsibilities, including identifying skill development needs, addressing skills gaps, and developing sector-specific competency standards.

He stated further that the SSC4E will oversee accreditation processes for training providers and promote excellence in service delivery.

“In line with these goals, the council will develop occupational standards across various engineering trades and services. The awarding body will create qualifications based on these standards, ensuring rigorous assessment methodologies and ongoing quality monitoring.

“COREN is committed to collaborating with SSC4E to enhance training and certification programs, utilizing technology and digital platforms to make training more accessible. The council will also promote innovation and best practices in the sector, facilitating knowledge exchange and addressing emerging trends in engineering,” he said.

Inaugurating the council members, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Technical, Vocational, and Entrepreneurship Education, Mrs Abiola Arogundade, tasked them to use their expertise to bridge the skill gaps in the engineering sector.

She was represented by the Executive Secretary of the Executive Secretary of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), Professor Idris Muhammed Bugaje.

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