The National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) has described Artificial Intelligence (AI) as an essential and unavoidable component in the ongoing transformation of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in Nigeria.
The move underscores a major shift to equip technical institutions with future-oriented skills aligned with global workforce demands.
The Executive Secretary of NBTE, Prof. Idris Bugaje, made this known on Friday in Kaduna during the inauguration of a three-day virtual capacity-building programme focused on AI-driven best practices for TVET institutions.
The programme was organised by NBTE in partnership with Huawei Nigeria Limited.
Prof. Bugaje said the training highlights the urgency of aligning the education sector with fast-changing industrial and technological realities, noting that emerging innovations are redefining the nature of work worldwide.
He stressed that institutions must go beyond preparing students for present-day employment and instead equip them for future challenges driven by technological disruption and innovation.
According to him, TVET institutions must respond swiftly to global shifts by ensuring learners acquire relevant and competitive digital competencies.
He also praised Huawei for its continued collaboration, particularly its support in strengthening digital skills development and contributing to curriculum enhancement across polytechnics.
Bugaje explained that when properly integrated, AI can transform teaching methods, enable personalised learning experiences, and improve student assessment systems.
He further noted that the true value of AI lies in how effectively institutions incorporate it into the delivery of instruction, curriculum design, and administrative processes.
Speaking at the event, Director of Enterprise Delivery and Service at Huawei Nigeria, Zhang Mi, described the programme as a significant milestone in the ongoing partnership with NBTE.
He said the collaboration aims to advance ICT capacity in polytechnics and TVET institutions, positioning Nigeria for stronger participation in the global digital economy.
Mi added that Huawei has been actively involved in curriculum development, including contributions to the current HND AI programme and other ICT-related courses.
He disclosed that the company has partnered with more than 50 polytechnics across Nigeria through its ICT Academy initiative, providing training in areas such as data communication, cybersecurity, and cloud computing.
Mi reaffirmed Huawei’s commitment to developing future tech leaders, supporting digital transformation, and promoting sustainable technological growth in Nigeria.
He also commended Prof. Bugaje’s leadership, describing his focus on ICT advancement in polytechnics as visionary and impactful.
