FG: N30bn disbursed directly to students through TVET initiative

The minister added that the Tinubu administration has introduced far-reaching reforms in the education sector.

Addressing a hall filled with students, the Minister said young Nigerians—who make up a significant portion of the country’s population—must take a long-term view of governance decisions, emphasizing policies that secure their future.

He argued that the current administration inherited decades of infrastructural decay and systemic challenges, noting that meaningful transformation requires time but is already underway across sectors, particularly education.

According to him, the Federal Government has prioritized sustainable reforms, including curriculum modernization, expansion of digital learning, and stronger alignment between education and industry needs.

He disclosed that emerging fields such as artificial intelligence and data science have now been integrated into learning at multiple levels.

Alausa also highlighted efforts to address graduate unemployment by shifting focus from theory-based education to skills acquisition and entrepreneurship.

He said, "On education, let me be clear: we are reforming the system to ensure relevance and impact. Students are encouraged to pursue courses that are aligned with market needs. Some programmes that do not provide practical value will be phased out. Education must equip you for the real world.

"We have introduced a student loan scheme to ensure that no willing student is denied access to education due to financial constraints. Repayment only begins after securing a decent job.

"We are also transforming the curriculum to align with global standards. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data science have been integrated into learning from primary school to university level.

"The world is changing rapidly, and Nigeria must not be left behind. Skills development is central to our strategy.”

“Skills are the future,” he said, explaining that beneficiaries of the programme receive hands-on training alongside starter packs to establish small businesses in areas such as fashion, solar installation, and other technical trades.

On student loans, Alausa reiterated that beneficiaries of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) would only begin repayment after securing gainful employment, describing the policy as a safeguard to ensure access to higher education without immediate financial pressure.

The Minister also assured students of improved academic stability, noting that reforms aimed at resolving disputes with academic unions would ensure that degree programmes run within stipulated timeframes.

“We are building an education system that prepares you not just for today, but for the future. The goal is to produce job creators, not job seekers,” the minister said.

Alausa urged the students to actively support policies and leadership they believe would secure long-term national development, insisting that the current administration’s reforms lay the groundwork for a more competitive and opportunity-driven education system.

Also speaking at the event, Minister of State for Regional Development, Uba Maigari Ahmadu, outlined ongoing efforts to rebuild educational and community infrastructure across regions affected by conflict and underdevelopment.

Similarly, the Minister of Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, highlighted new policies aimed at unlocking opportunities within Nigeria’s creative sector, including funding initiatives and intellectual property protection frameworks for young creatives.

The event, which brought together policymakers and students, focused on engaging young Nigerians in national discourse while showcasing government interventions targeted at youth empowerment.