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As part of its strategic commitment to bridge the vocational education skill gaps in Nigeria, Vocational and Professional Development Academy (VPDA) has opened its first academy building in Yaba Lagos.
The academy is out to address the glaring need for internationally standard training in the vocational sector in Nigeria.
Ekua Abudu, founder, Vocational and Professional Development Academy observed that so Nigeria artisans and worker who claim to have received some form of training and yet they are still unemployable.
Abudu while speaking at the opening of the center said since 2010 vocational training has been very close to her heart and have been a sector she felt compelled to contribute to over the last 7 years as a result of her involvement with graduate students from her skills acquisition centre.
According to her, “Repeated problems with electricity and plumbing at my home and in my business increased my passion to start a vocational school But one with the highest standards which is why we commenced talks with City and Guilds”.
“We intend to embark on a nationwide campaign to change the mindset of people about vocational training. It is not a last resort as many people think but a viable option to facilitate entrepreneurship and increase employment. We want people to know that a wide range of skills come under the term ‘Vocational’ including logistics, oil and gas services, health and safety, security , media and photography, travel and tourism, IT, business skills”, she said
On the choice of Yaba as the first location, Abudu, noted that it was a natural choice because it is easily accessible and represent an education hub housing University of lagos, Yaba College of Technology and other Federal institutions. Adding that Yaba has also been described by Akinwunmi Ambode, governor of Lagos State as the next ‘Silicon Valley’
Harvey Smith, CEO of the Academy, in his presentation on what makes VPDA different said aside from boosting of excellent facilities in a safe/controlled environment, the academy offers entrepreneurship training at the end of every course through the SME boost programme which helps new entrepreneurs and business owners keep track and manage their finances effectively when they start their own business.
Smith opine that the academy also offer International Qualifications and Partnerships including City and Guilds.
According to him, “We intend to offer Employment opportunities after training with our Industry partners. We are working in collaboration with companies to meet their short and long term needs”.
“Beyond the scope of Vocational Education we offer career development opportunities for professionals; many of our industry partners are willing to sponsor/offer scholarships to deserving students who are bright but cannot afford to pay one’s fees. We are in the process of developing a scheme to recruit such student,” he said.
On her part, Mimi Ade Odiachi, the Chairman of the foundation on her part reiterated that the vision of the academy ties with the vision of Custodian Social Responsibility Foundation which sees vocational training as a necessary component of the process of economic growth.
KELECHI EWUZIE
