By Stanley Onyekwere
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) through its Education Secretariat organised a 3-Day training for FCT principals on entrepreneurship education curriculum for students in the Territory.
It was gathered that training held at the Nigeria Building And Road Research Institute (NBBRI), Abuja, was organised by the FCT Innovation Team that was trained at the Brunel University, United Kingdom (UK).
Speaking during one of the training sessions, the FCT Secretary For Education, Dr. Danlami Hayyo, noted that the training with the theme: “Entrepreneurship Education Curriculum”, underscores the importance of instilling entrepreneurial skills and mindset among our students from an early age.
Hayyo, who was represented by Director, Special Duties, Education Secretariat, Ramatu Ajiji Habu, said in an era characterized by rapid technological advancements and globalization, entrepreneurship education plays a pivotal role in preparing students for the challenges and opportunities of the future.
According to him: “By fostering creativity, critical thinking, problem-solving, and resilience, we empower our youth to become active contributors to economic growth and societal development.
“As principals, you occupy a central position in the educational ecosystem, serving as leaders, mentors, and role models to our students and educators alike.
“Your dedication and enthusiasm for embracing innovative approaches to education are truly commendable and reflect our collective determination to equip our students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in today’s dynamic world.
“Your commitment to excellence, innovation, and inclusivity is instrumental in creating a conducive learning environment where every student can realize their full potential.”
Furthermore, the Secretary encouraged the trainees to leverage the expertise of our esteemed facilitators and actively participate in the discussions, workshops, and networking sessions planned over the next three days.
He added that they should collaborate with their fellow educators to develop tailored entrepreneurship education curricula that meet the diverse needs of their students.
“Together, let us explore innovative pedagogical approaches, assessment strategies, and partnerships that will enrich the educational experience of our students and empower them to become lifelong learners and future leaders. Let us work to build a brighter future for the students of the Federal Capital Territory”, he stressed.
Similarly, in a welcome address delivered by the Director/Secretary, FCT Secondary Education Board (SEB), Dr. Mohammed Sani Ladan, revealed that the trainees comprises of visionary leaders, who play instrumental roles in shaping the educational sector of the FCT.
Ladan said one of the significant gains resulting from the training collaboration with Brunel University was that the FCT Administration, through the Education Secretariat, took a monumental step forward by submitting a memorandum to the Joint Consultative Council on Education (JCCE) during its session in Calabar.
He added that this memorandum advocated for the need to strengthen bilateral cooperation and agreements with Brunel University (UK) to promote entrepreneurship education in Nigeria.
According to him, the memorandum, having scaled through the JCCE, is set for presentation at the National Council on Education (NCE) later in the year, which indicates it is not only being recognized but also embraced at the highest levels of educational policy making in Nigeria.
He opined that the significance of this training for principals of FCT Senior Secondary Schools cannot be overstated, as it provides a platform to delve into the intricacies of entrepreneurship education and explore strategies for its effective implementation within FCT schools.
“I would like to express our heartfelt appreciation to the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, for his unwavering support and commitment to the advancement of education in the FCT. Your vision and drive for educational excellence have been instrumental in driving positive change within the FCT education sector.
“May I also extend sincere gratitude to the Minister of State for the FCT, Dr Mariya Mahmud, for gracing this occasion with your presence. Your firm dedication to the cause of education always serves as a source of inspiration to every one of us”, he affirmed.
