Strengthening the relationship between vocational training institutions and industry is essential to preparing young people for the demands of the workplace. With this in view, the Salesians of Don Bosco, through the Planning and Development Office (PDO), P-TVET Office and John Bosco Institute of Technology (JOBITECH), Obosi, organised the JOBITECH Employers Dialogue Forum 2026 on 29 October in Onitsha, Anambra State.
The forum, themed “Transforming the Image of TVET: Promoting Inclusion, Skills Development, Industry Partnerships and Pathways to Economic Development,” was organised under the Advocacy, Networking and Joint Learning module of the Global Programme II (GP2). It provided an opportunity for stakeholders in the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sector to discuss existing challenges, share experiences and explore practical ways to make vocational education more responsive to industry needs.
The event brought together representatives of regulatory bodies, manufacturing companies, training institutions and other stakeholders in the TVET ecosystem. Attendees included representatives of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), the National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB), the Onitsha Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (ONICCIMA), and companies from across the country.
In his address, the keynote speaker, Mr Christopher Ukaoha, representing Engr. Endi Ezengwa, Managing Director of Innoson Kaira Academy, emphasised the importance of gender inclusion in skills training and employment. He noted that the forum provided an opportunity to identify practical ways of building stronger relationships between vocational training institutions and industries that depend on skilled workers.
Similarly, Mr Chrysantus Ugwuezumba, representing Cummins Africa and Middle East, encouraged employers and training institutions to prioritise talent and competence when deciding on young people’s employment opportunities, rather than letting gender influence those decisions.
A particularly engaging moment was the testimonial session by Ms Ukamaka Obodo, a field service technician and a Past Pupil (Alumna) of JOBITECH Obosi, who spoke about the need to challenge traditional perceptions of careers available to women. She encouraged parents and other stakeholders to give girls equal opportunities to pursue technical and vocational careers, noting that women can work successfully in workshops and other technical fields just as they do in administrative roles.
The forum also featured technical presentations on the National Skills Qualification (NSQ), its value and relevance to industry, as well as gender equality and inclusion in TVET. These sessions provided participants with further insight into the importance of recognised skills qualifications and creating equal opportunities within vocational training and employment.
Another major highlight was the exhibition of locally fabricated items, tools, equipment and machinery produced by trainees of JOBITECH Obosi. The exhibition offered participants an opportunity to see the practical skills acquired by the trainees and the potential of vocational education to support local production and industrial development.
Participants also engaged in breakout group discussions covering four key areas: industry skills needs and curriculum development; work-based learning, industrial training and employment; gender equality and inclusion in TVET; and the image, attractiveness and public perception of vocational education. The discussions provided an opportunity for stakeholders to share ideas and identify areas requiring collaboration and improvement.
Speaking on the purpose of the forum, the P-TVET Coordinator, Mr Cletus Linus EtukAkpan, explained that the programme was designed to bring TVET stakeholders together to discuss important issues affecting the sector, including inclusion, employment, curriculum development and job placement. He emphasised the need for collective efforts to strengthen vocational education and improve its relevance to the changing demands of the workplace.
The participation of stakeholders, particularly ONICCIMA, also opened conversations about possible areas of collaboration with JOBITECH. Following its engagement at the forum, the Chamber expressed interest in exploring mutually beneficial partnerships with the institute and indicated its intention to initiate collaborative activities in the coming days.
In his closing remarks, Rev. Fr. Christopher Anso, Director of JOBITECH Obosi, stressed the need for Nigerian TVET institutions to continue evolving in response to changing industry demands and the realities of the modern workplace.
The forum ended with the presentation of action points, providing a basis for continued engagement among the participating stakeholders.
Beyond the discussions, the forum reinforced the importance of working together to ensure that vocational training translates into relevant skills, meaningful employment and opportunities for young people. The Salesians of Don Bosco remain committed to strengthening partnerships that improve the quality of TVET and expand opportunities for young people to develop their potential.
